SLIM, the Moon Lander, Resumes Communication after Cold Lunar Night
The Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) has successfully responded to a command from Earth, indicating that it has survived the cold lunar night and maintained communication capabilities.
SLIM's Recovery after a Precise Touchdown
SLIM, the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon, has been on a tumultuous journey since its precise touchdown on the rim of Shioli crater on Jan. 19. Due to engine trouble, the lander ended up upside-down. However, the solar panels on SLIM are still receiving energy from the sun, albeit at a reduced level.
The reduced sunlight caused the mission to shut down shortly after landing, but it revived on Jan. 29 for a couple of days of operations. The lander's remarkable recovery showcases that its electronics have survived the extremely low temperatures during the lunar night.
SLIM's Survives Cold Temperatures on the Moon
Despite the cold lunar night temperatures of around minus 208 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 130 degrees Celsius), SLIM's electronics remained operational. Mission officials from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) announced that the spacecraft has successfully made it through the lunar night and maintained communication capabilities.
JAXA officials also mentioned that the surface temperatures of the moon were measured to be at 212 Fahrenheit (100 Celsius). This demonstrates the ruggedness of SLIM's electronics, as they were able to withstand such extreme conditions on the moon.
Signs of Progress for SLIM
SLIM's recovery after the cold lunar night is an important milestone for the mission. The lander's ability to maintain communication capabilities opens up possibilities for further exploration and data collection on the moon's surface.
The success of SLIM's mission also highlights the technological advancements in space exploration and the resilience of spacecraft electronics. As our understanding of the moon and other celestial bodies increases, future missions can build upon these achievements to uncover more about the mysteries of the universe.
