Chinese researchers discover new mineral on the moon
Miscellaneous / / September 12, 2022
Previously unknown mineral found Chinese researchers in samples of lunar soil delivered by the Chang'e-5 mission to Earth.
The researchers were able to isolate a single-crystal particle about 10 microns in size from soil samples and determine its structure. Lunar phosphate mineral, called "Change stone" (Changesite-(Y)), is a colorless transparent crystal. Probably, the fossil is found in large quantities in particles of lunar basalt.
The discovered mineral contains helium-3 - this isotope is rare on Earth and is considered a promising fuel for nuclear fusion. The advantages of the compound include low radioactivity.
At the same time, the storage of helium-3 does not require special precautions, and in the event of a reactor accident, the risk of a release is close to zero. This substance is extremely in demand today - in particular, in medicine. However, helium-3 has a serious drawback - it requires a temperature of the order of a billion degrees to generate energy.
According to experts, one gram of helium-3 costs $17,540 today. The amount is dictated by the complexity of the process of extracting the element on Earth. In total, about 15 kg of the mineral is mined per year.
Now CNSA plans to send three additional vehicles to the moon as part of the Chang'e mission within ten years to study the satellite's minerals in more detail. In addition, China intends to compete with NASA and ESA by building an international research station on the moon.
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