China (Zhongguo) Set To Conduct First Lunar Sample Return Of The Modern Era

Wenchang SLC On Hainan Island Is Center Of Preparatory Activity For 24 Nov Chang’e-5 Launch: Testing, Assembly, LM-5 Launch Vehicle Integration; Built By CAST For CNSA, Chang’e-5 23-Day Mission Comprised Of Orbiter, Lander, Ascender And Returner; ≤ 2 Kilograms Of Regolith To Be Collected By Lander Via Robotic Drill / Scoop Near Dense Mons Rümker Volcanic Structures, Within Oceanus Procellarum; 4-Spacecraft Mission Begins Phase 3 Of China Lunar Exploration Program, And Signals Level Of Technical Sophistication Necessary For Future Crewed Lunar Missions / Deep Space Exploration

Credits: CNSA, CAST, China Daily