China Distributes Lunar Samples for Scientific Research

On April 8, 2025, a researcher showcased a lunar sample at the Nano Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer Laboratory within the Institute of Geology and Geophysics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing. This event highlighted the ongoing scientific endeavors surrounding lunar exploration.

The Chinese space agency has recently approved the ninth round of applications for lunar sample research. Successful applicants will gain access to samples collected by the Chang'e-5 and Chang'e-6 missions.

A substantial amount of lunar material, totaling 30,881.8 milligrams, will be distributed to 32 research groups representing 25 different institutions. This distribution is managed by the Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Center under the China National Space Administration.

The list of recipients includes a diverse range of universities, such as the Macao University of Science and Technology, Chengdu University of Technology, Donghua University, Harbin Institute of Technology, the University of Hong Kong, and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Additionally, institutions associated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences are also included.

The Chang'e-6 mission achieved a historic feat by collecting 1,935.3 grams of samples from the far side of the moon. The Chang'e-5 mission previously retrieved approximately 1,731 grams of lunar samples.

China initiated the distribution of lunar samples to research institutions in July 2021. To date, eight batches of lunar samples have been provided for research purposes.

Recently, China presented a collection of research findings from Chinese scientists who have been studying samples from the Chang'e-6 mission. These studies have explored various aspects of the moon, including volcanic activity, the ancient magnetic field, water content, and the geochemical characteristics of the lunar mantle.