A captivating exhibition in Bangkok has showcased a lunar sample gathered during China's Chang'e-5 mission, highlighting the potential of international collaboration in space exploration and generating significant public interest in science.

Encased in a rotating crystal sphere, the 75-milligram lunar sample, dubbed 'The Moon Shines Bright On Me,' provided visitors with a rare opportunity to experience material collected from the moon's surface, inviting them on an intricate microscopic journey.

Among the enthusiastic attendees was seven-year-old Tannya Neesanant, an elementary school student who expressed her excitement upon seeing the sample for the first time. She remarked on its unusual hue, describing it as appearing more like sand than typical soil.

This exhibition was the result of collaboration between the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) and the China National Space Administration (CNSA), making the lunar sample a highlight of the recently concluded Sci Power for Future Thailand Fair.

The event displayed a portion of the samples collected by the Chang'e-5 lunar probe, which is notable for being one of the most complex and ambitious undertakings in China's space exploration history.

Attendees were inspired by the opportunity to engage with lunar exploration on such a personal level, particularly children who were motivated to enhance their learning and chase their aspirations, according to Suppawat Zhou, a member of the exhibition staff.

Zhou also noted that it was rewarding to witness visually impaired and deaf students absorbing information about the exhibits through their teachers' interpretations, sparking their interest in astronomy, space, and technology.

Saran Poshyachinda, head of NARIT, emphasized the exhibition's role in showcasing advanced technologies developed in Thailand for astronomical research, including an instrument designed for monitoring cosmic radiation and space weather from a lunar perspective, which is earmarked for the upcoming Chang'e-7 mission.

In April, China and Thailand entered into two memorandums of understanding to collaborate on the exploration and peaceful use of outer space, as well as the establishment of an international lunar research station.

Poshyachinda expressed anticipation for future lunar samples from the CNSA, which will facilitate laboratory testing and the development of suitable instruments for moon surface exploration.

He further emphasized the importance of collaboration with China in enhancing Thailand's capabilities and aligning the nation with global leaders in space exploration.