Lunar Sample Return missions

Lunar Sample Return missions involve sending spacecraft to the Moon to collect soil and rock samples and bring them back to Earth for analysis. These missions help scientists learn about the Moon's geology, formation, and history, as well as provide insights into the early solar system. The samples can reveal clues about the processes that shaped both the Moon and Earth. Notable examples include the Apollo missions in the 1960s and 1970s, which returned nearly 400 kilograms of lunar material, and upcoming missions by various countries aiming to further expand our understanding of lunar science.