Chang'e-6 mission uncovers new insights into moon's ancient magnetic field

The Chang'e-6 mission has revealed new information about the moon's ancient magnetic field. Samples from the moon's farside, dated to 2.8 billion years ago, show a significant increase in magnetic field strength, challenging previous beliefs about the lunar dynamo's activity. This study, published in Nature, is the first paleomagnetic analysis of farside lunar samples. Researchers measured magnetic field strengths between 5 and 21 microteslas, indicating a resurgence after a decline noted around 3.1 billion years ago. The findings suggest that processes like a basal magma ocean or core crystallization may have kept the moon's interior active longer than thought. This research provides valuable insights into the moon's geological history and may inform future lunar exploration.