Chinese researchers discovered water-enriched mineral in lunar soil

A recent discovery by Chinese researchers has ignited widespread excitement and speculation about the potential for agricultural activities on the moon. The Institute of Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, along with other prominent Chinese universities, announced the identification of a previously unknown mineral, named ULM-1, in samples collected by the Chang’e-5 mission. This mineral, enriched with water molecules and ammonium, comprises about 41% of the sample’s mass, as reported by China Central Television (CCTV).

This finding challenges previous assumptions established by the U.S. Apollo missions, which suggested the lunar surface was devoid of hydrated minerals. “A mineral that contains water molecules has never been found in previously returned lunar soil samples,” said Jin Shifeng, an associate researcher at the Institute of Physics of CAS. The presence of water in lunar soil not only revises our understanding of the moon’s volcanic history and formation but also has profound implications for future lunar exploration and habitation.

The enthusiasm reached the Chinese public, who whimsically proposed the cultivation of crops such as chili peppers, potatoes, and green beans on the moon. Addressing this excitement, Chinese researchers indicated that the discovery could potentially support the growth of crops on the moon due to the presence of ammonia and potassium in the mineral—key components used in fertilizers on Earth.

However, Zhang Chuanjun, a senior aerospace breeding engineer, cautioned that while the discovery is promising, significant challenges remain. “The water we found is not in liquid form but exists in a crystalline form, so it cannot be directly used for planting,” Zhang explained. He noted that additional research is needed to explore how to effectively extract and utilize this water for agricultural purposes on the moon.

The discovery also has implications for manned lunar missions, potentially reducing the need to transport water from Earth. This hydrated salt, stable even in the moon’s sunlight-exposed areas, could significantly decrease the logistical challenges and costs associated with long-term human presence on the lunar surface. In their pursuit of accuracy and to rule out contamination, Chinese researchers conducted detailed chemical and chlorine isotope analyses, confirming the mineral’s lunar origin.