JAXA’s Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) has defied expectations by surviving its third week-long night on the moon, showcasing its resilience and durability in extreme conditions.
The Japanese space agency recently shared an image captured by SLIM as it emerged from its third lunar night, depicting the bright moon surface with short shadows. SLIM, which touched down on the moon on January 19, 2024, has been conducting tests on landing technology and collecting valuable data on lunar geology.
Despite facing challenges such as orientation issues with its solar panels, SLIM has continued to impress experts with its ability to withstand the harsh temperature cycles on the moon. The lander’s main functions remain operational after three overnight stays, demonstrating its robust design and engineering.
Independent researcher Chandra Tungathurthi utilized the Chandrayaan-2 orbiter to monitor SLIM from above, capturing high-resolution images of the lander on the lunar surface with a pixel resolution of 16cm per pixel. This collaboration between different space agencies highlights the importance of international cooperation in space exploration.
Looking ahead, JAXA plans to closely monitor SLIM to ensure its longevity in the challenging lunar environment. By identifying potential areas of deterioration during the lunar day and night cycles, scientists can improve future missions and enhance our understanding of the moon’s surface.
The success of SLIM’s mission serves as a testament to the ingenuity and expertise of the team behind the project, as well as the advancements in space technology that continue to push the boundaries of exploration. Stay tuned for further updates on SLIM’s groundbreaking journey on KP INSIDER.
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