Chinese mission discovers 'lunar rust' challenging long-held view
Researchers have discovered tiny iron oxide crystals called haematite and maghemite in lunar soil sample brought back by China's Chang'e-6 mission. They were found in samples from the South Pole-Aitken (SPA) basin, suggesting that "lunar rust" originates from violent impacts. The findings challenge the long-standing view that Moon's surface is in a reduced state with minimal oxidation.