China Plans More Moon Missions , After Finding Potential Energy Source.
'Newsweek' reports that in 2020,
China's Chang'e-5 mission brought
lunar samples back to Earth. .
Scientists have been studying the samples ever since to determine what comprises lunar dust. .
An element known as Helium-3
was found in the samples.
While scientists have known for decades that the stable, non-radioactive isotope exists on the moon, .
Chinese researchers claim to have determined just how much of Helium-3
is contained within lunar samples.
They've also deduced extraction parameters. .
Scientists say it is possible that Helium-3 could be used for nuclear fission without producing dangerous waste products.
However, 'Newsweek' reports that a working fusion reactor would have to be engineered before any of this could become a reality.
'Newsweek' also reports that another diamond-like mineral, Changesite-(Y),
was found in the lunar samples. .
'Newsweek' also reports that another diamond-like mineral, Changesite-(Y),
was found in the lunar samples.
