China’s Chang’e-6 lunar samples make global debut at IAC in Italy

China’s Chang’e-6 lunar samples retrieved from the far side of the moon made their global debut at the 75th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) held in Milan, Italy from October 14 to 18. The display of such precious lunar samples not only highlights China's advancements in space technology but also provides new research prospects for global space scientists, China National Space Administration (CNSA) said on Saturday. 

Themed “Responsible Space for Sustainability,” this year’s IAC in Italy brought together leaders of space agencies, international organizations, researchers, entrepreneurs and astronauts representing more than 100 countries and regions. The IAC showcased the latest space technologies and achievements, delving into topics such as sustainable exploration of the moon and Mars, space observation of Earth's climate change, the role of private enterprises in space, and the applications of artificial intelligence, the CNSA said in a statement it provided to the Global Times on Saturday.

The significant achievements of China's Chang'e-6 lunar sample return mission became the focal point of the event, according to the CNSA. For the first time, lunar soil samples collected from the far side of the moon were showcased globally. 

The unveiling of this precious sample not only highlights China's technological advancements in space but also provides new research prospects for global space scientists, the CNSA noted. Many heads of space agencies and representatives from international organizations visited the lunar samples. 

The CNSA also held a press conference for the Chang’e-6 mission on October 15, during which Li Guoping, Chief Engineer of the CNSA, delivered a speech. 

He stated that the CNSA consistently adheres to the principles of "equality, mutual benefit, inclusiveness, openness, and win-win cooperation," opening the doors to collaboration and contributing Chinese wisdom and strength to sustainable space exploration and the construction of a shared future for humanity in outer space. 

Li Guoping also outlined China's future lunar and deep space exploration plans, urging international collaboration in the development for the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS.) 

He announced that the second batch of international applications for Chang'e 5 lunar samples would soon begin and welcomed scientists from around the world to engage in joint scientific research. 

Director Guan Feng from the Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Center introduced the Chang'e-6 mission process and the latest research progress on samples from the far side of the moon, stating that scientific research on the Chang'e-6 lunar samples will be comprehensively launched, aiming for early and rapid results to expand humanity's understanding of the moon.