Japan’s SLIM Moon Lander Shuts Off Power, Hopes to Restart Later
Japan has become the fifth country in history to successfully reach the moon, as its Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) touched down on the lunar surface. However, shortly after landing, operators encountered an issue with the spacecraft’s solar panel, which was failing to generate power. In response, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) made the decision to shut off the power in hopes of restarting the spacecraft at a later date.
The battery of the SLIM lander was disconnected when it reached a level of 12% to prevent over-discharge and ensure the possibility of a recovery operation. JAXA stated that if sunlight begins to shine on the lunar surface from the west, there is a chance of generating power through the solar cells. Therefore, preparations are underway for a potential recovery once sunlight reaches the lander.
Despite the setback, JAXA expressed satisfaction with the mission’s achievements thus far. The agency successfully transmitted technical and image data acquired during the landing descent and on the lunar surface before shutting off power. They plan to announce the current status of SLIM and its results at the end of the week.
SLIM was launched on a Mitsubishi Heavy H2A rocket in September and entered lunar orbit on December 25th. It carried two small autonomous probes known as lunar excursion vehicles LEV-1 and LEV-2. These probes were believed to have been released just before landing. LEV-1, equipped with an antenna and a camera, was responsible for recording SLIM’s landing, while LEV-2, a ball-shaped rover developed in collaboration with Sony, toymaker Tomy, and Doshisha University, carried two cameras.
Japan now joins the ranks of the United States, the Soviet Union, China, and India as one of the few nations to successfully reach the moon. The SLIM mission represents a significant milestone for Japan’s space exploration efforts and highlights the country’s growing presence in the field.
As JAXA continues its efforts to restart the SLIM lander, the world eagerly awaits further updates on this groundbreaking mission. The successful recovery of the spacecraft would not only be a triumph for Japan but also a testament to human ingenuity and determination in exploring the mysteries of our celestial neighbor.
