Japan's 'Moon Sniper' Outperforms Expectations, Survives Lunar Night

February 27, 2024
Japan's 'Moon Sniper' Outperforms Expectations, Survives Lunar Night
  • Japan's Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM), nicknamed 'Moon Sniper', has survived the extreme lunar night temperatures and maintained communication with JAXA.

  • SLIM faced challenges with an off-course landing and an upside-down position due to an engine issue but has successfully completed its tasks and is generating solar power.

  • The probe's survival in the absence of specific low-temperature design features could offer critical insights for future lunar explorations.

  • JAXA remains optimistic about SLIM's continued scientific contributions and plans to establish regular communication in the near future.

  • The SLIM mission underscores Japan's position as one of only five countries to have successfully landed on the moon.

  • The recent success of the private company Intuitive Machines with the Odysseus moon lander and NASA's upcoming missions indicate a burgeoning new era in lunar exploration.

Summary based on 6 sources


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Japan's 'Moon Sniper' Awakens After Long Lunar Night

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