China has handed over a material sample collected during its historic Chang'e-6 mission from the far side of the Moon to the United Nations. This soil sample, weighing 1935.3 grams, was obtained from the South Pole-Aitken Basin (SPA) and represents an unprecedented achievement for humanity.
During a ceremony in Vienna titled 'From Lunar Soil to Common Ground: A Shared Future for All,' Shan Zhunde, administrator of the China National Space Administration, emphasized that exploring the vast universe is a common aspiration of all humankind.
By presenting the sample, which will be permanently displayed at the UN headquarters in Vienna, China demonstrated its commitment to the principles of international cooperation, multilateralism, and the peaceful use of outer space. He stated that China is ready to share the results of its space program with countries around the world, opening opportunities for joint work toward common prosperity.
He addressed the attendees, which included over 400 diplomats, UN staff, scientists, and representatives of international organizations, noting the necessity of promoting the peaceful exploration of space and fostering a community with a shared future for humanity.
Attendees highly praised China's achievements in space exploration, as well as its efforts to promote openness and exchange in the space sector. Monica Juma, Director-General of the UN Office in Vienna, highlighted the unique role of Vienna as a venue uniting science and diplomacy.
She noted that the permanent exhibition of the lunar sample symbolizes human creativity, technological progress, and the determination to explore the Universe, as well as China's support for UN efforts to solve global problems.
Arti Halla-Mayni, Director of the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs, stated that the handover of the sample and the exchange of scientific data demonstrate that outer space is the collective heritage of mankind. She stressed that this sample, thanks to China, belongs to everyone.
Halla-Mayni added that this gift will serve as a teacher, not a trophy, telling the story of lunar exploration and contributing to the development of global governance of outer space. The sample will no longer be confined to laboratories but will be accessible to thousands of students, delegates, and visitors annually.
Li Sun, China's Permanent Representative to the UN and other international organizations in Vienna, noted that this event illustrates China's vision for building a community with a shared future for humanity. He called it an important Chinese initiative in support of the UN goal of peace and the realization of four global initiatives.
