China Makes History: Chang’e-6 lunar probe returns with first samples from moon’s far side

China has made history by becoming the first country to collect and return samples from the far side of the moon. The Chang’e-6 lunar probe, part of China’s ambitious space program, successfully touched down in the northern Chinese region of Inner Mongolia on Tuesday, bringing with it invaluable rock and soil samples.

The mission marks a significant milestone in lunar exploration, as the far side of the moon has been relatively unexplored due to the challenges posed by its position facing away from Earth. The samples collected by the Chang’e-6 probe are expected to provide new insights into the moon’s geological history and composition, helping scientists better understand the formation and evolution of Earth’s nearest celestial neighbor.