China has achieved another milestone in space exploration with the successful launch of the Chang’e-6 lunar probe atop the Long March-5 Y8 carrier rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Hainan Province. The China National Space Administration (CNSA) announced that the probe has precisely entered the Earth-Moon transit orbit, marking the commencement of a groundbreaking mission that aims to collect samples from the far side of the moon. The launch took place as scheduled at 5:27 p.m. local time, with the CNSA confirming that the mission is on track and considered successful.
This significant endeavor is part of China’s ambitious space program, which includes plans to send a crewed lunar mission by 2030. The Chang’e-6 lunar probe is set to collect samples from the far side of the moon, which is not visible from Earth, making it a historic and pioneering mission in human history. Named after the mythical Chinese moon goddess, this mission follows in the footsteps of previous Chinese lunar missions, further emphasizing China’s commitment to space exploration.
The mission is expected to last 53 days, with the objective of returning approximately 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) of lunar soil samples to Earth. This scientific feat aligns with China’s dedication to lunar exploration, building upon the success of the Chang’e-4 mission, which made history by being the first to visit the far side of the moon in 2019. The Chang’e-4 mission also included a rover to explore the moon’s Von Kármán crater, showcasing China’s capabilities and advancements in space technology.
As the Change-6 lunar probe embarks on this challenging journey to the moon, it marks a significant achievement for China’s space program. The complex nature of this mission, expected to last more than 50 days, presents various technical and operational challenges. To shed light on the intricacies and objectives of this groundbreaking space mission, CGTN reporter Wu Lei recently spoke to Hu Hao, the chief designer of the Chang’e-6 mission. With the successful launch of the Long March 5 Y8 rocket propelling the Chang’e-6 lunar probe, the global community eagerly anticipates the scientific discoveries and advancements that will arise from this extraordinary space exploration endeavor.
In conclusion, the successful launch of the Chang’e-6 lunar probe by China’s CNSA using the Long March-5 Y8 carrier rocket has set the stage for a landmark mission that aims to collect valuable samples from the far side of the moon. This milestone further solidifies China’s commitment to space exploration and scientific innovation, positioning the nation as a key player in the realm of lunar exploration.
