China successfully launched its most intricate lunar mission yet, the Chang’e-6 probe, aiming to retrieve samples from the far side of the moon, a historic feat for the nation’s space program.

The launch from the Wenchang Space Launch Center signifies a pivotal moment in China’s goal to establish itself as a leading space power, with plans to land astronauts on the moon by 2030 and establish a research base on its south pole.

As countries worldwide, including the United States, increasingly recognize the strategic and scientific advantages of lunar exploration, China’s 53-day mission holds promise for uncovering valuable insights into the moon’s evolution and the solar system’s history, CNN reported.

The Chang’e-6 mission seeks to achieve breakthroughs in various lunar technologies, contributing to China’s lunar aspirations and expanding humanity’s understanding of our celestial neighbor.

Written by B.C. Begley