China's lunar atlas to aid future exploration goals
China has released a comprehensive 1:5,000,000 scale geological map of the moon, incorporating data from the Chang'e lunar exploration program. The atlas identifies thousands of craters and new rock types, providing a refined timeline for lunar geological history.
Why it matters
This detailed mapping is a critical resource for international lunar science and provides a foundation for future exploration and resource identification missions.
China has completed a geological map of the entire moon at a scale of 1:5,000,000, providing a comprehensive reference for lunar science research and future exploration missions.
Scientists at the Institute of Geology of the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences led the compilation of the map using data from the Chang'e lunar exploration program. The map identifies more than 13,000 impact craters and 81 impact basins, while classifying 14 types of geological structures and 17 types of rocks across the lunar surface.
The main map measures about 280 centimeters long and 120 cm high and is accompanied by separate geological maps of the moon's north and south polar regions.
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