China invites US scientists to study lunar rocks as space ties cautiously resume

China’s national space agency announced on Thursday that it would permit scientists from the United States and allied nations to study moon rocks collected by its Chang’e-5 mission in 2020. This move is seen as part of China’s strategy to bolster the international profile of its lunar exploration efforts.

Despite ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing over geopolitics and trade, the collaboration underscores that some forms of scientific exchange remain possible. Seven research institutions, including Brown University and the State University of New York at Stony Brook—both recipients of NASA funding—have been granted access to the lunar samples. The other authorised institutions hail from Japan, France, Germany, Britain, and Pakistan.

China became only the third country to collect lunar samples through its uncrewed Chang’e-5 mission, joining the Soviet Union and the United States. In 2024, it achieved another milestone by becoming the first nation to return samples from the moon’s far side through the Chang’e-6 mission.

However, collaboration between NASA and the China National Space Administration (CNSA) remains restricted due to a 2011 US law that requires any engagement with China to undergo national security review involving the FBI. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson noted in October that discussions were ongoing regarding the sample-sharing agreement and assured lawmakers that there would be no national security risks.

Nelson also stated that four US universities had applied to receive the Chang’e-5 samples, and he anticipated that further FBI certification would be needed before any material was handed over.

China is using its growing space capabilities as a diplomatic tool. Wu Weiren, chief designer of China’s lunar programme, remarked that the country’s increased strength and confidence have led to greater openness, contrasting with what he described as rising US isolationism.

The CNSA disclosed that earlier Chang’e missions included international payloads, with the upcoming Chang’e-7 mission in 2026 set to carry six international instruments. Discussions are also underway with 10 nations for the Chang’e-8 mission, which will contribute to China’s goal of establishing a permanent crewed lunar base by 2035.