How the Moon Preserves the Origins of Life

New analysis of samples from Chang'e-5 and Chang'e-6 has revealed complex nitrogen-bearing organic matter on the Moon—offering a rare glimpse into the chemistry of the early solar system.

With no active biology or geology, the Moon acts as a pristine archive, preserving materials delivered by asteroids and comets. These compounds have since been reshaped by impacts and solar radiation, creating a clear evolutionary pathway of extraterrestrial matter.

The result is a chemical “fingerprint” that helps scientists trace how the ingredients for life were distributed and transformed across space.

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