Chang'E-5 Mission Discovers Water on the Moon

Hydrated Mineral Found in Lunar Soil

Implications for Future Lunar Exploration

A team of scientists has discovered evidence of water on the Moon, based on data from China's Chang'E-5 mission. The discovery, published in the journal Nature, provides new insights into the potential for future human exploration of the Moon.

The team analyzed lunar soil samples collected by the Chang'E-5 lander in December 2020. They found a hydrated mineral called NH4MgCl36H2O, which is typically found on Earth in arid environments. This discovery suggests that water may be more common on the Moon than previously thought.

The team also found evidence of other minerals in the lunar soil, including olivine, pyroxene, and plagioclase. These minerals are commonly found in lunar rocks and soils, but their presence in the Chang'E-5 samples provides additional confirmation of the mission's success.

The discovery of water on the Moon has significant implications for future lunar exploration. Water is essential for human life, and it would be a major challenge to transport water to the Moon from Earth. If water is available on the Moon, it could be used to support human settlements and make it easier to explore the lunar surface.