Graphene find in China's Chang'e-5 moon samples challenges lunar origin theory

Chinese researchers have discovered graphene in lunar soil samples collected by the Chang’e-5 mission, challenging the theory that the moon was formed by a collision between Earth and a smaller planet. The presence of carbon in the samples challenges the assumption that the moon was carbon-depleted, as previously thought. The discovery of graphene, a form of pure carbon, suggests the moon may have a carbon capturing process on its surface. The study, led by Jilin University researchers, used advanced techniques to analyze the graphene found in the samples. The graphene was identified as few-layer graphene, indicating volcanic processes on the moon may have interacted with carbon-containing gas molecules in solar winds, leading to its formation. This finding could revolutionize the understanding of the moon's chemical components and history. Additionally, the research may provide insights into developing low-cost synthesis techniques for high-quality graphene.