China Welcomes International Scientists to Study Lunar Samples: Highlights of Chang’e-6 Mission and Future Space Exploration Efforts

Beijing officials from the Chinese National Space Administration (CNSA) welcomed scientists from around the world to study samples of rocks and dust collected by the Chang’e-6 mission. The officials emphasized the importance of international cooperation in space exploration, but also highlighted obstacles such as the Wolf Amendment that prohibits direct bilateral cooperation with NASA.

Deputy administrator Bian Zhigang stressed the need for removing barriers to cooperation in order to facilitate normal space exchanges between China and the United States. He noted that while US law has slowed down cooperation, it cannot hinder China’s rapid development of its space industry, which has achieved significant milestones through its own efforts and expertise.

The Chang’e-6 mission was a major success for China, as it was the first country to land on Earth with a lunar sample return mission. The aim of this mission was to study the geological structure, material composition, and early cosmic environment of the Moon’s far side, which is full of mysteries. International scientists are welcome to participate in this research and collaborations have been established with countries such as Pakistan, France, Italy, and the European Space Agency on scientific payloads.

Looking ahead, future missions such as Chang’e-7 and Chang’e-8 are planned to study resources at the south pole of the Moon. International cooperation is key to these missions and several countries have already expressed interest in participating. In addition, China plans to build an international lunar research base and has signed cooperation agreements with over 10 countries for this project.

Overall, China’s achievements in space exploration demonstrate its commitment to international cooperation and scientific advancement. The country is open to collaborating with other nations in exploring the mysteries of the universe and expanding our knowledge of outer space.