Foreign media reported that China collected approximately 4.4 pounds of lunar soil and rock samples via the Chang'e-6 mission on the far side of the moon, which has strengthened the theory of the early Moon being covered by a magma ocean at the China University of Geosciences.
Researchers discovered ancient volcanic rocks - basalt - dating from 2.8 to 4.2 billion years ago, as well as a special substance composed of potassium, rare earth elements, and phosphorus known as KREEP in the samples. These findings suggest that volcanic activity also occurred on the far side of the Moon, with magma cooling processes being similar to those on the near side, further supporting the theory that the early Moon was covered by a magma ocean.
This discovery not only helps to understand the formation and evolution of the Moon but also enables scientists to better comprehend the origin and evolution of Earth, as the Moon and Earth share the same origin. China also plans to jointly build an international lunar research station with countries like Russia and conduct manned lunar landings.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1835411103546435/
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