China makes Chang'e-5 lunar samples available for research
Source: HW Upgrade added 18th Jan 2021
Chang’e Lunar Champions -5 are now available to international bodies or agencies to be able to conduct scientific experiments (including destructive ones). Thus opens a new chapter of collaboration between nations.
by Mattia Speroni published 18 January 2021 , at 17: 01 in the Science and Technology channel
International collaboration when it comes to scientific research and space is fundamental. For this reason the announcement of the CNSA (the Chinese space agency) to make available to the entities of other nations the lunar rock samples of the space mission Chang’e-5 is very interesting.
Chang’e-5 lunar samples are available for testing
I lunar samples collected during the Chinese space mission Chang’e-5 which ended in December 2020 have a weight of approximately 1.7 kg . The document that opens to international collaboration is available on the CNSA website, outlining wide possibilities of use by institutions and agencies worldwide. There seem to be no particular constraints and therefore, potentially, even NASA could request a sample.
As reported, it is explicitly written that there is room for “international cooperation on studies on lunar samples” . Of course, the CNSA will not leave the samples “to anyone” but only to those who guarantee high standards and use in terms of scientific research . In fact, the notes read that it will be necessary “to conduct scientific research or socially advantageous activities in accordance with the relevant content of the approval and agreement “.
Whoever asks to be able to have part of it will be responsible for damage, loss or inappropriate use. However, this does not exclude the possibility of carrying out “destructive” type experiments . The important thing is that everything is filmed on video so as to avoid appropriations or possible sales. After all, the moon rock samples are particularly expensive and the market demand is high. To further protect the samples, inspections by Chinese lunar program technicians may be envisaged.
As regards scientific research, the studies performed must clearly state which sample is been employed. Furthermore, it will be necessary to clearly write “Lunar sample provided by the CNSA” . There will also be a review of the scientific studies published thanks to the lunar samples of Chang’e-5 and the sharing of scientific results.
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