Chang'e-5 Lunar Samples Take Center Stage at Beijing Planetarium Exhibition

Lunar Samples Take Center Stage at Beijing Planetarium Exhibition

A captivating exhibition showcasing lunar samples collected by the Chang'e-5 mission has opened its doors to the public at the Beijing Planetarium. This immersive experience offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the Moon's formation and evolution through the lens of these precious extraterrestrial materials.

At the heart of the exhibition lies 0.6 grams of lunar soil retrieved by Chang'e-5, displayed alongside Moon rocks collected by Apollo 17 and lunar meteorites from Northwest Africa. These diverse samples, obtained through different methods and at different times, provide scientists with a wealth of perspectives for studying the Moon's history.

The exhibition utilizes cutting-edge technology to bring the lunar soil to life. Robotic arms, large-diameter hemispherical lenses, stereomicroscopes, XCT scanning, and three-dimensional digital reconstruction technology allow visitors to observe the soil up close, revealing its intricate details and true state.

Furthermore, the exhibition introduces the "Chang'e stone," a new mineral discovered and named from the Chang'e-5 lunar samples. This marks a significant milestone for China, becoming the third country in the world to identify a new mineral on the Moon.

This exhibition at the Beijing Planetarium offers a captivating journey into the world of lunar exploration, providing valuable insights into the Moon's formation and evolution while showcasing the remarkable achievements of China's space program.