China has recently released a detailed geologic atlas of the moon, which is available in both Chinese and English. The atlas offers a closer look at the lunar surface with a scale of 1:2.5 million, showcasing fascinating geological features such as impact craters.
One of the notable features highlighted in the atlas is the ring structure, with each ring representing an impact event. The smaller rings are known as impact craters, while the largest one, called an impact basin, exceeds 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 Chinese scientists and cartographers who have played a significant role in China’s exploration of the moon. The country has launched several 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, International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), in the 2030s and sending astronauts to the moon before 2030 as part of their ongoing lunar exploration efforts.