A high-resolution map of moon rocks. (PHOTO / SHANGDONG UNIVERSITY)

BEIJING - Chinese scientists have created a high-resolution map of moon rocks, providing detailed information about the composition and distribution of lunar surface materials.

The new lunar map can be used for further scientific research, exploration planning, sampling and selection of return sites, and it can also provide a reference for mapping other Earth-like planets in the future

Released at a 1:2,500,000 scale, the map of the entire moon is the result of a 10-year study undertaken by researchers from Shandong University, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and other institutions. It captures the lithologic features of 17 lunar rock types.

ALSO READ: China releases new geologic map of moon

China's recent lunar missions, which include orbiting, landing and bringing samples back to Earth, have collected diverse datasets that "provided primary sources for this lithological mapping effort," according to the study findings published in the journal Science Bulletin earlier this week.

ALSO READ: China looking at sending robotic probe to far side of moon

The new lunar map can be used for further scientific research, exploration planning, sampling and selection of return sites. It can also provide a reference for mapping other Earth-like planets in the future, the researchers noted.

READ MORE: Chief designer details China's future lunar missions

The paper and digital versions of the map will be published in Chinese and English by China's Geological Publishing House.