China completes new geologic map of Moon

Chinese scientists have completed an updated geological map of the entire Moon, providing one of the most detailed representations of the lunar surface to date.

The 1:5 million-scale map was produced by researchers at the Institute of Geology, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences and incorporates the latest findings from China's Chang'e lunar exploration programme and other international lunar studies.

The map identifies more than 13,000 impact craters, 81 impact basins, 14 types of geological structures and 17 rock types. It also includes detailed inset maps of the Moon's polar regions.

Researchers said the project updates the Moon's geological timeline, refines the classification of lunar rocks and geological features, and introduces a more detailed breakdown of the Moon's later geological history. The map also incorporates high-resolution mineral distribution data and, based on discoveries from the Chang'e-4 and Chang'e-6 missions, adds gabbronorite as a distinct rock type in the South Pole-Aitken Basin.

According to the research team, the new map will support future lunar missions by assisting with landing site selection, the development of China's planned lunar research station and broader deep-space exploration efforts.

China previously released the world's first 1:2.5 million-scale geological map of the Moon in 2022, followed by the first complete high-definition lunar geological atlas in 2024.