Unraveling the Moon’s Geology: China Reveals Detailed Atlas with 1:2.5 Million Scale

In recent years, China has unveiled a highly detailed geologic atlas of the moon that is now available in both Chinese and English. The atlas offers an unprecedented close-up view of the lunar surface with a scale of 1:2.5 million, highlighting some of the most intriguing geological features such as impact craters.

One of the standout features in the atlas is the ring structure, which represents each ring as an impact event. The smaller rings are known as impact craters, while the largest one, called an impact basin, spans over 200 kilometers in diameter. The age of these features is indicated by different colors, with purple representing the oldest impact craters.

The mapping project began in 2012 and was led by a team of Chinese scientists and cartographers who have played a significant role in China’s exploration of the moon. Over the years, China has launched numerous lunar probes and missions, including orbiters like Chang’e 1 and Chang’e 2, as well as landers and rovers on both sides of the moon.

The atlas provides valuable insights into the moon’s history, resource distribution, and potential for future exploration. According to Ouyang Ziyuan, a prominent Chinese lunar scientist, China’s ambitious plans include building a lunar base, known as the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), in the 2030s and sending astronauts to the moon before 2030 as part of their ongoing lunar exploration efforts.

The mapping project has been a significant milestone for China’s space program and has helped researchers gain a better understanding of our neighboring planet’s geology and potential for future exploration. With this new tool in hand, scientists can continue to study and explore the moon’s surface more closely than ever before.

Overall, this detailed geologic atlas offers valuable insights into one of Earth’s closest celestial neighbors and highlights China’s continued commitment to exploring space beyond our own planetary boundaries.