Chinese scientists claim:Chinese moon samples reveal groundbreaking discovery of water molecules

When Chinese scientists analyzed the lunar soil samples brought back by their moon rover, they made a groundbreaking discovery: water and minerals were found in the soil. 

Finding water on the moon itself isn't new. NASA and India's spacecraft had detected what they believed to be water on the lunar surface, and last year, Chinese scientists found water trapped in glass beads scattered across the moon. Chang'e-4 landed on the back of the moon 

However, this latest discovery marks the first time molecular H2O water was found in physical samples, taken from a part of the moon where such water was previously thought impossible. The study, published in Nature Astronomy, revealed a "prismatic, plate-like transparent crystal," named ULM-1, that is composed of about 41% water. 

This discovery is a significant stride in China's ambitious space program, aiming to establish a research base on the moon. It was well-received on Chinese social media, with users expressing national pride in their space achievements. 

David A. Kring from the Lunar and Planetary Institute called the discovery of hydrated minerals at the Chang'e-5 landing site fascinating, indicating it will enhance understanding of the moon's crust and the reaction of lunar surface rocks to vapor. 

This finding is expected to open new possibilities for identifying new forms of water on the moon, contributing to future lunar exploration missions.