Study on the storage, processing and preparation of lunar samples returned by the Chang’E-5 mission

The Chang’E-5 mission realized China’s first automatic lunar surface sampling return. The Ground Research and Application System is responsible for storing, preparing, and processing the returned lunar samples. The constructed Lunar Sample Laboratory has storage, processing, and preparation functions for the original lunar samples and is capable of long-term sample storage and processing in an environment of high-purity nitrogen on Earth. The Chang’E-5 mission returned two types of samples: scooped and drilled samples. This study developed detailed storage, preparation, and processing protocols for different types of samples. Three working stages will be carried out after the sample is returned to the Lunar Sample Laboratory, including sample processing, storage, and preparation. The detailed procedure involves unsealing the sealed packaging device, separating the scooped and drilled samples, storing the drilled and scooped samples, and preparing the samples. The primary sealed containers for scooped and drilled samples were successfully extracted via a designed unsealing process. Samples for permanent storage, backup storage, engineering display, and scientific research were obtained using the division method for scooped and drilled samples. The samples are stored in different equipments at different locations according to the designed storage method in this study. Scientific samples and some display samples were polished into sections according to the designed preparation method to ensure that the basic sample information can be obtained without destroying the original characteristics of the samples. The prepared samples will be used to analyze their physical and chemical properties and describe their basic characteristics, which can provide important information and technical support for subsequent scientific research.