The China National Space Administration (CNSA) approved the distribution of its ninth batch of lunar research samples in July, awarding grants to 25 scientific institutions nationwide, with a total of 67 applications approved. Shandong University (SDU) made the list for the fourth time since initially receiving samples in 2021.

Professor Ling Zongcheng, a veteran in lunar and planetary science, will lead this research effort, marking his third time utilizing lunar samples. His team actively participates in China's deep-space exploration missions, managing projects ranging from manned spaceflight to pre-research in civilian space technology and key projects supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC).

SDU's planetary science team plays a crucial role in national initiatives like the China's Lunar Exploration Program (CLEP) and Mars exploration. Focusing on planetary remote sensing and spectroscopy, the team investigates the composition and geological evolution of planetary surfaces and sub-surfaces. By analyzing remote sensing and in-situ data, including those from China's own missions, they aim to decipher the distribution of planetary materials and geological processes. Their research utilizes advanced experimental equipment to analyze meteorites and returned samples, contributing original findings to the field.

Chang'e-5 lunar samples approved for SDU's planetary science team. [Photo/WeChat account: shandongfabu]