The flag exhibited by the Chang'e-6 lunar probe was crafted from an unconventional material known as basalt fibres, essentially derived from rock. In Chinese, basalt is referred to as Xuanwu rock, named after a mythical creature symbolizing the north and the winter season.
During its mission to collect samples from the far side of the moon, China's Chang'e-6 lunar probe prominently displayed the Chinese flag, underscoring the nation's significant role in lunar exploration.
The flag showcased by the Chang'e-6 probe was crafted from basalt fibres, a material derived from rock. This unique choice highlights China’s innovative approach to space exploration. Basalt, a dark, fine-grained volcanic rock formed by rapidly cooling basaltic lava rich in iron and magnesium but low in silica, is commonly found in ocean basins and volcanic regions. It is often used in construction and concrete aggregates. Basaltic lava flows easily, creating broad volcanic structures like shield volcanoes, and its dark color and fine texture come from minerals such as pyroxene and plagioclase feldspar.
In Chinese, basalt rock is called Xuanwu rock, named after a mythical creature symbolizing the north and winter. "We crushed and melted the rocks to draw them into thin threads, each about one-third the diameter of a human hair," explained Professor Zhou Changyi from the National Space Science Centre at the Chinese Academy of Sciences to China Global Television Network (CGTN). Zhou added that the flag, made from basalt fibres, could last over 10,000 years on the moon due to its resistance to corrosion, heat, and cold. He also mentioned that this material could be used to construct China’s future lunar research base, as this type of rock is abundant on the moon. It reportedly took researchers over a year to develop the method for producing basalt fibres.
Zhou stated that the purpose of hoisting the national flag was to instill patriotism among Chinese people worldwide. The national flag was also displayed during the 2020 Chang'e-5 mission, where it was made from polymer fibre.
"Basalt contains a mineral called plagioclase feldspar, which is responsible for forming threads or fibres when the rock is melted and extruded. These fibres, known as basalt fibres, are highly prized for their strength and durability," said Girish Linganna. Plagioclase feldspar, a common mineral in basalt, forms as magma cools and solidifies, enhancing the rock's strength and durability, which makes it ideal for creating basalt fibres.
According to Linganna, these fibres are widely used in construction and automotive industries for their toughness and reliability. In construction, basalt fibres are used in composites, reinforcing materials, and concrete, providing added strength and stability to structures and increasing their lifespan. In the automotive industry, basalt fibres are used to manufacture parts requiring a high strength-to-weight ratio and heat resistance, improving vehicles' structural integrity while reducing their weight and enhancing fuel efficiency.
"Overall, the unique properties of basalt fibres, derived from the mineral plagioclase feldspar present in basalt, make them a valuable material in various industries, contributing to the development of stronger and more resilient structures and products," Linganna concluded.
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