Produced by: Tarun Mishra
China's Chang'e-6 mission successfully collected samples from the far side of the Moon. This marks the first time such samples have been gathered, setting the stage for their return to Earth.
The ascender module of Chang'e-6 docked with the orbiter-returner combination in lunar orbit. This critical manoeuvre allowed for the transfer of lunar samples from the ascender to the returner module.
During the docking, the collected lunar samples were carefully transferred from the ascender to the returner module, ensuring their safe transport back to Earth.
China's space agency has meticulously planned the complex journey of the samples. The orbiter-returner combination will orbit the Moon, making necessary adjustments before beginning the return journey.
Over the next two weeks, the orbiter-returner combination will enter the Moon-Earth transfer orbit. This phase is crucial for positioning the spacecraft correctly for its journey back to Earth.
After a five-day journey through the transfer orbit, the returner module will separate from the orbiter approximately 5,000 kilometres above Earth. It will then begin its descent through Earth's atmosphere.
The returner module is expected to touch down at a pre-determined site in Siziwang Banner, Inner Mongolia, around June 25. This landing site has been prepared to receive the samples safely.
Upon arrival, the sample container will be swiftly moved to a specialized nitrogen-filled environment to prevent contamination from Earth's atmosphere, preserving the integrity of the samples.
These samples are expected to provide invaluable insights into the Moon's formation and evolution. Scientists eagerly await the opportunity to study them, potentially unravelling new mysteries of lunar science.