China returns rock and soil samples from moon's far side, sparking concerns of a new space race for a lunar base.

China's successful return of rock and soil samples from the far side of the moon has sparked concerns that it may be on the path to winning a new space race for the first permanent lunar base, despite benefits for international scientific collaboration and the US space program's plans for landing astronauts on the unexplored region. Political tensions and fears of China potentially violating the global outer space treaty by hoarding territory or resources may hinder international collaboration and lunar exploration.

July 15, 2024
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