Outstanding Lunar Maps Revealed by CNSA

This week saw the Chinese National Space Administration (CNSA) reveal new maps of the Moon. Thus far, nothing unusual, except maybe for the amazing resolution and level of detail these products contain. CNSA is indeed beginning to catch up with Russia, Europe and the US in space exploration.

The data used to compile these maps were collected by the Chang'e 2 spacecraft, the second orbiter China sent around the Moon. A large number of photos collected by the probe were then stitched together to create the most detailed lunar map China ever compiled, Space reports.

The Chinese Ministry of National Defense posted the photos online on Monday, February 6. Officials in the Asian nation say that this is the most detailed composite image of the lunar surface ever created. NASA's LRO snaps more detailed photos, but has yet to produce a full map of the Moon, they add.

Slowly, but surely, China is beginning to catch up with other, more advanced nations, at least as far as space exploration is concerned. I have a high degree of admiration for the persistent way in which the Chinese are pursuing their objectives.