Janice R. Andrews
When the Japan Aerospace research Agency (JAXA) mission’s Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) came down on the lunar surface on January 20, it was discovered to have landed upside down, throwing off Japan’s space research plans. Even with this setback, JAXA was still able to gather important data prior to the spacecraft’s power eventually running out.
Unexpected Drops and Technical Issues:
Not long after JAXA became the fifth nation to land a spacecraft on the moon, the SLIM’s inverted landing presented a special problem. Potential problems with power generation that may affect the mission were already known to the CIA. As expected, the power ran out a few hours after landing, making it difficult to continue with activities.
Though SLIM landed around 55 meters east of the planned touchdown spot, JAXA was able to get navigation-related technical data before the lander shut down. Photographs of the SLIM were taken by the completely autonomous Lunar Excursion Vehicle 2, which provides information on the lunar surface and the health of the spacecraft.
Examining Engine Failure:
The JAXA crew is presently looking into what caused the primary engine of the SLIM to malfunction. Finding the source and resolving any problems that could have contributed to the unanticipated landing orientation are top priorities for the space agency. The study is expected to entail a comprehensive examination of the telemetry data and systems of the spacecraft.
Very Little Chance of Regeneration:
Though the situation is difficult, there is still little hope for recuperation. The solar cells that power the SLIM are oriented toward the west, which may allow for regeneration over time provided the cells receive enough sunshine. The JAXA crew said, “We are getting ready for recovery,” with hope. This suggests that as more time goes by, there could be a chance to bring the SLIM back to life and carry out its purpose once more.
Making Recuperation Ready:
In order to get ready for the SLIM spacecraft’s retrieval, JAXA is aggressively making the required preparations. In order to maintain the mission’s goals, the agency is dedicated to collecting more technical and scientific data from the stranded lander. Utilizing any possible power regeneration and putting creative solutions into practice to get beyond the difficulties presented by the upside-down landing might be part of the recovery process.
Despite the unexpected setback of Japan’s SLIM lunar spacecraft landing upside-down, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency is not giving up on its recovery efforts. While the engine malfunction study is ongoing, JAXA is enthusiastic about the remote possibility of regeneration and is getting ready to collect more useful data from the spacecraft. The results of these recovery operations will surely add to our growing understanding of space technology and lunar exploration.
