Japan’s Moon Sniper lunar lander makes a precise landing despite last-minute engine scare

Japan’s “Moon Sniper” spacecraft achieved a precise lunar landing, making it the fifth nation to accomplish a soft lunar landing after the United States, the Soviet Union, China, and India, according to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

The unmanned Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM), nicknamed the “Moon Sniper” for its precision technology, successfully touched down within 55 meters of its targeted landing spot on a lunar crater.

Despite last-minute engine problems and issues with the craft’s solar batteries, the pin-point landing is a significant achievement.

SLIM’s goal was to land within 100 meters of the specific target, showcasing advanced precision technology compared to typical landing zones that have a range of several kilometres.

A photo taken by a mini-rover released by JAXA displayed the yellow lander sitting intact on the rocky lunar surface, with lunar slopes rising in the background.

The mission’s primary objective is to explore a lunar crater where the Moon’s mantle is believed to be exposed.

By analysing rocks in this area, scientists hope to gain insights into the Moon’s potential water resources, which could be crucial for future human exploration and possible bases on the Moon.

Despite engine problems during the descent and challenges with solar batteries, JAXA successfully downloaded technical and image data from the mission before temporarily powering down the spacecraft.

Mission control is preparing for a possible resumption of operations around February 1, aligning with changes in the sun’s angle that may improve solar power generation.

SLIM’s mission adds to recent lunar exploration efforts by various countries and private companies, aiming to uncover new insights about Earth’s celestial neighbour.

The successful lunar landing by Japan contrasts with recent setbacks faced by the United States in its lunar programs, highlighting the technical challenges involved in space exploration.

(With inputs from agencies)