Raman spectroscopic studies on lunar samples returned by Chang'e 5/6 missions

Raman spectroscopy is a powerful technique that offers rapid, non-destructive mineralogical and chemical analysis of lunar and planetary surface materials. Raman spectroscopy relies on the inelastic scattering of incident laser light by mineral structures, providing unique vibrational "fingerprints" based on energy shifts in the scattered photons. We conducted a systematic laboratory analysis of the returned Chang’e 5/6 lunar soils by utilizing Raman spectroscopy. We acquired thousands pieces of Raman spectra on lunar soils. In general, we found more than 20 mineral species in the Chang’e 5/6 lunar soils. We demonstrated the mineral chemistries and mineral modes of Chang’e 5/6 lunar soils. More importantly, we discovered the evidence of new minerals (hematite and maghemite) in the Chang’e-6 lunar soils from South Pole-Aitken basin. Those laboratory studies of lunar soils by Raman spectroscopy provide valuable information and solid basis for the forthcoming lunar missions like Chang’e-7, which will conduct the first in-situ Raman spectroscopic survey and geologic studies on the Moon.