Chinese Scientists Reveal Moon’s Far Side Cooler Than Near Side
(MENAFN) Chinese scientists have confirmed that the Moon’s far side mantle is significantly cooler than its near side counterpart, according to state media reports released Monday.
The revelation stems from the analysis of soil and rock samples gathered by the Chang’e-6 mission, which returned in June last year with 1,935.3 grams of material—marking the first time samples have ever been retrieved from the Moon’s far side. The study was jointly announced by the China National Space Administration (CNSA) and the China Atomic Energy Authority, and reported by media.
Scientists say the discovery could reshape understanding of lunar formation and evolution, particularly the long-standing mystery of the Moon’s asymmetrical geological features.
"The moon's relatively low degree of evolution and its late-stage modification features make it a valuable reference for studying Earth's past history. The significant differences between its near and far sides should also offer insights into Earth's evolution," said Li Ziying, chief scientist at China National Nuclear Corp.
The Moon’s near and far sides are dramatically different—an enduring enigma in planetary science. The near side, constantly visible from Earth, is characterized by wide, flat plains. In contrast, the far side is rugged, with deep ravines and dramatic cliffs.
According to He Sheng, a researcher at the Beijing Research Institute of Uranium Geology under China National Nuclear Corp, the new findings build upon earlier observations of these stark contrasts in terrain, rock makeup, and mineral distribution.
"Previous studies on the moon's 'duality' primarily relied on remote sensing, geophysical detection data and numerical simulations, but the lunar far side soil samples brought back by Chang'e-6 have given us the opportunity to conduct close-up, direct research into the differences between the moon's near and far sides," He said.
The team conducted mineralogical analysis on the returned lunar material, focusing on key minerals such as clinopyroxene and plagioclase to estimate crystallization temperatures. Their results show that the basalt samples from Chang’e-6 formed at around 1,100°C—approximately 100°C cooler than those collected from the near side by the earlier Chang’e-5 mission.
These findings lend weight to theories that the Moon's far side evolved differently due to variations in heat flow, internal composition, or even past asteroid impacts.
The research not only advances lunar science but could also help reconstruct aspects of Earth's own ancient geological history, scientists say.
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