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China surpasses the rest of the world in the space race and has the most sought-after element on the Moon in its hands

Written by Rafaela Fabris
Published 11/08/2024 às 00:23
China surpasses the rest of the world in the space race and has the most sought-after element on the Moon in its hands
Image: President of China/Disclosure

China discovers molecular water on the Moon, marking a crucial advance in space mining

A China just surpass the rest of the world in the space race, putting itself ahead in one of the biggest technological and strategic disputes of our time. The Asian country recently revealed a discovery that could change the game: molecular water on the Moon, a fundamental element for space mining and future satellite exploration and colonization missions.

You may have already heard about the existence of water on the Moon, but the truth is that, until now, we were only scratching the surface. THE China announced that scientists in the country have identified, for the first time, complete water molecules in lunar samples brought back by the Chang'e-5 probe. Unlike what was found in previous studies, which detected hydroxyl (a precursor to water), we are now talking about legitimate H2O, in its molecular form.

Race for space mining

This discovery is not just a scientific landmark, but also an immense strategic advance in the race for space mining. With this molecular water, the China takes a giant step towards exploring resources on the Moon, which could include everything from supplying lunar bases to producing fuel for future space missions. This not only positions the country at the forefront of lunar exploration, but also puts it at a significant advantage over other powers that also aim for leadership in space.

China prepares to advance

China surpasses the rest of the world in the space race and has the most sought-after element on the Moon in its hands
Lunar samples from the China Chang'e-5 mission lunar exploration program on display at the National Museum in Beijing, China — Photo: Reproduction/Reuters

With the confirmation of the presence of molecular water on the Moon, the China prepares to move forward with projects space mining. The discovery of a mineral called ULM-1, which contains more than 40% water, reinforces the possibilities for extracting and using this vital resource. From that point on, the question is no longer whether we will explore the Moon, but rather when and how it will be done.

In addition to being a source of water, which is essential for life and fuel production, space mining can open the door to the exploration of other valuable resources present in space, such as rare metals and helium-3, which have the potential to revolutionize several industries here on Earth.

Physical samples that confirm the presence of H2O

While NASA and other space agencies are still trying to unravel the mysteries of lunar water, the China is already a step ahead, with physical samples that confirm the presence of H2O in places where it was previously not believed possible to find it. The discovery was made at 43,1 degrees latitude, an area considered unsuitable for the presence of molecular water, which only makes the feat even more impressive.

What's next? We are likely to see the China expand its presence on the Moon, with ambitious plans to establish a research base and eventually begin spacecraft operations. space mining on a large scale. And in the meantime, the rest of the world will have to hurry to avoid falling too far behind in this new era of space exploration.

China has shown that it is willing to go far

The space race is far from a friendly competition, and the China has shown that it is willing to go far to ensure leadership in this field. With the discovery of molecular water on the Moon, the country not only put its foot on the accelerator, but also changed the rules of the game. THE space mining is getting closer and closer to becoming reality, and, it seems, the China is determined to lead this new frontier. The question remains: how will the rest of the world react to this?

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Rafaela Fabris

It discusses innovation, renewable energy, oil and gas. With over 1.200 articles published in CPG, it provides daily updates on opportunities in the Brazilian job market.

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