Japan's lunar lander SLIM has re-established contact with JAXA and resumed operations after overcoming landing challenges.

The lander experienced a lost thrust during landing, causing it to tip upside-down, but is now fully operational and capturing images with its multi-band spectral camera.

SLIM achieved its main objective of a pinpoint landing on the Moon, despite facing issues such as a faulty solar panel and incorrect landing attitude.

The rover is sending back images for analysis and the mission team is selecting specific rocks for further study.

NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter captured an image of SLIM on the Moon, assisting in the assessment of the landing site and the lander's condition.

SLIM's findings may inform future exploration efforts, particularly at the Moon's hilly poles, which could be sources of vital resources like fuel, water, and oxygen.

The lander is expected to operate until the end of January, but its ability to survive the lunar night beginning on February 1st is uncertain.