Official announcements from relevant space agencies or governments

Chinese Scientists Discover Water Evidence in Chang'e-5 Lunar Samples

Jul 23, 2024, 03:00 PM

Chinese scientists have discovered new evidence of water on the moon's surface. The discovery was made through the identification of a hydrated mineral in lunar samples retrieved by the Chang'e-5 mission. This mineral, which contains up to six crystalline water molecules and weighs about 41% of the total mass, has been named ULM-1. This marks the first time that molecular water has been found in lunar soil, unveiling the existence of water molecules and ammonium on the moon. Experts suggest that this evidence of water is a key factor for future missions and the potential establishment of a permanent lunar research station.