Intuitive Machines' Lunar Lander Set for Historic Touchdown at Mons Mouton and Athena Lander Captures Earth Photo
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Athena Lander Captures Earth Photo and Targets Lunar Landing on March 6
- Intuitive Machines' Athena lander captured a photo of Earth after launching into space on February 26, 2025.1
- The Athena lander is part of a mission targeting a lunar landing opportunity on March 6.1
- Athena is equipped with a drill to investigate resources near the moon's south pole.1
- The mission is part of NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services program.2
- The Athena lander has made headlines by capturing a stunning photo of Earth and is set for a lunar landing on March 6.
- Equipped with a drill, it aims to explore resources near the Moon's south pole.
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Background
- The Intuitive Machines’ Nova-C lunar lander (IM-2) is scheduled to touch down on March 6 in Mons Mouton, a plateau in the Moon’s South Pole.1
- NASA's CLPS (Commercial Lunar Payload Services) initiative aims to advance our understanding of the Moon and support future crewed missions.2
- NASA acting Administrator Janet Petro stated that these missions represent the foundation for future explorers who will live and work on the Moon.3
- The IM-2 mission will include a passive Laser Retroreflector Array to provide a permanent reference point on the lunar surface.1
- NASA’s Lunar Trailblazer will map the distribution of different forms of water on the Moon and contribute to understanding water cycles in the solar system.2
- Intuitive Machines’ lunar lander is set to land on Thursday, March 6, in Mons Mouton, located at the Moon’s South Pole. This mission, known as IM-2, is part of NASA’s CLPS (Commercial Lunar Payload Services) initiative, which aims to deliver NASA technology and science demonstrations to enhance our understanding of the Moon and support future crewed missions.
- The IM-2 mission is significant as it represents the United States' leadership in lunar exploration. NASA acting Administrator Janet Petro stated, “With each CLPS mission, the United States is leading the way in expanding our reach and refining our capabilities, turning what was once dreams into reality.” This initiative is crucial for paving the way for future lunar exploration.
- Additionally, the lander features a passive Laser Retroreflector Array designed to reflect laser light back to any future orbiting or incoming spacecraft, providing a permanent reference point on the lunar surface. This technology will assist in navigation and mapping efforts for subsequent missions.
- Alongside the lunar lander, a NASA spacecraft launched as a rideshare with the IM-2 mission is also en route to lunar orbit. This spacecraft will focus on mapping the distribution of various forms of water on the Moon, which is essential for understanding lunar resources and potential future habitation.