Discovery of Water in Chinese Moon Rock Samples

Scientists have discovered traces of water in rock samples brought back from the Moon by China's Chang'e-5 lunar probe. This finding complements NASA's 2020 confirmation of lunar water and previous discoveries in moon rocks from the 1960s and 1970s.

The new samples, collected from a higher latitude on the Moon, suggest that water may exist as Hydrate salts in sunlit areas. China's space ambitions are evident with plans for a crewed moon mission by 2030 and the establishment of a lunar base, supported by significant investments in the country's space program.

This breakthrough, the first direct evidence of lunar water by Chinese researchers, could significantly enhance our understanding of Earth's natural satellite. The follow-up Chang'e-6 mission, which retrieved material from the lunar far side, may unveil further insights into the Moon's composition and history.