China has unveiled a groundbreaking set of high-definition geological maps of the Moon at a scale of 1:2,500,000, marking a significant milestone in lunar exploration. The Xinhua agency reported this remarkable achievement.
This historic release of detailed lunar maps is the first of its kind globally, offering essential cartographic data crucial for future scientific investigations and missions to the Moon.
The Institute of Geochemistry at the prestigious Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) revealed that the comprehensive set of Moon maps is available in both Chinese and English languages, catering to a wider audience of researchers and space enthusiasts.
Renowned lunar expert and CAS academician, Ou Yanxiuan, emphasized the immense importance of these geological maps for unraveling the Moon’s evolution, identifying potential sites for future research outposts, and tapping into lunar resources. Furthermore, these maps offer valuable insights into Earth and other celestial bodies within our Solar System, such as Mars.
Liu Jianzhong, a senior researcher at the CAS Institute, highlighted the outdated nature of existing lunar maps, which have not been updated in nearly fifty years. Despite their age, these maps continue to play a vital role in lunar studies. However, to meet the evolving demands of lunar exploration, a more detailed and up-to-date geological map was imperative.
In a monumental effort spanning a decade, Chinese researchers unveiled the most intricate and comprehensive geological map of the Moon in 2022, showcasing the dedication and expertise of hundreds of scientists involved in this groundbreaking project.
Original from theins.ru