China’s new Moon map signals bid to redefine lunar science and space standards

Chinese researchers unveiled a 1:5 million lunar geologic map updating the 2024 edition with new boundaries for the Aitkenian, Nectarian and Imbrian periods and revised KREEP terrain, using reprocessed spectral data. The project establishes a proprietary cartographic standard to influence future planetary geology and is framed as part of China’s broader push into deep-space exploration alongside Chang'e missions and ambitions beyond the Moon.