What is that thing attached to the corner of the Chinese lunar probe behind the moon?

China Launches Lunar Probe 'Chang'e 6' on 3rd
To Collect 2kg of Soil and Rocks from Moon's Far Side and Return
Rover Equipped with 'Infrared Spectrometer' Onboard?

Recently, China launched the lunar probe 'Chang'e 6,' which has drawn attention due to an unidentified payload onboard. On the 7th (local time), the U.S. science media Live Science reported, "China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) successfully launched the Long March 5 Y8 rocket carrying the probe that will collect samples from the far side of the moon and return them to Earth on the 3rd." Chang'e 6 is scheduled to land in the 'South Pole-Aitken Basin' on the far side of the moon and collect samples weighing up to 2 kg, including soil and rocks. If successful, it will be the first case in human history.

[Image provided by China Academy of Space Technology (CAST)]

However, a mysterious rover (exploration device) was spotted in photos of Chang'e 6 released by Chinese authorities. The rover is a small device with four wheels and is believed not to be a payload from another country. Space journalist Andrew Jones attached an enlarged photo of the part on X (formerly Twitter) and said, "It appears to be a mini probe that has not been previously disclosed."

Chinese authorities have not provided further explanation about the rover. However, it is assessed that it seems unsuitable to assist the previously launched Chang'e 5 or to carry out long-term missions.

Experts found a hint in the words of the Shanghai Institute of Ceramics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), which explained the mission of Chang'e 6. A representative from the institute mentioned, "An infrared imaging spectrometer is mounted on the small vehicle."

Accordingly, it is speculated that the 'secret rover' will compare how various minerals and compounds absorb and emit infrared radiation. It is expected to verify the composition of lunar surface rocks and soil and be used for water detection. Also, to deploy the rover from the lander onto the lunar surface, foldable ladders or similar equipment are likely to be used.

In 2021, China also launched the Mars probe Tianwen 1 with an undisclosed payload. At that time, unidentified devices were confirmed on the Zhurong rover and orbiter in photos taken in deep space.