Yuxin Deng (China)
作者
本期主题/专栏:
What's In a Name
On the far side of the moon, China's Chang'e 6 lunar probe has landed. This exciting moment has captured global attention and elevated China's spaceflight efforts, as it is the first probe to land on the far side of the moon.
When discussing this splendid achievement, it’s worth noting that Chang'e 6 is one of the significant spacecraft from China, and behind its name lies a story steeped in Chinese romance. Chang'e, known as the heroine of the Mid-Autumn Festival origin story, is said to have consumed a potion and flown to the moon. As a visitor to the moon, the Chang'e series of spacecraft carries all the hope and curiosity that the Chinese people have always had for the moon. This time, the mythical figure comes to life, exploring the moon with ambition and a romantic charm unique to China.
Names from traditional Chinese myths and poetry can easily be found in reports about China's self-developed spacecraft. For instance, the Tianwen Mars probe is named after one of Qu Yuan's poems from the Warring States Period, honoring him as one of the greatest poets in ancient China. This name symbolizes the Chinese people's inquiry into the universe and expresses a pursuit of truth and exploration of the unknown. Additionally, it reflects the inheritance of Chinese culture from generation to generation.