New Image from Japan’s SLIM Lunar Lander Shows Earth Half-Shrouded in Shadow
Japan’s SLIM lunar lander, also known as the “moon sniper,” has captured a captivating image of Earth during its testing phase. The image gives a unique glimpse of our planet, half-covered in shadow, against the backdrop of the vast expanse of space. The photograph was taken as a test of the camera system that will aid the SLIM lander in accurately determining its position during its descent onto the moon.
Launched on a H-2A rocket on September 6, the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) has successfully completed its initial crucial phase in Earth’s orbit. The Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) reported that SLIM passed a series of systems tests with flying colors.
The recent image, shared by JAXA’s SLIM account on X (formerly known as Twitter), was taken from a distance of approximately 62,000 miles (100,000 kilometers) from Earth. The picture appears in monochrome, as SLIM’s dual-camera, vision-based navigation system is designed to identify crater positions using the data stored aboard the spacecraft.
The SLIM account also shared another image showcasing Japan, positioned centrally on the sphere, just outside the shadow of night. The image also indicates the faintly visible moon, which is SLIM’s ultimate target.
As SLIM continues its journey to the moon, the spacecraft successfully executed its second adjustment maneuver on September 26 at 0100 GMT (10:00 a.m. Japan Standard Time). The purpose of these maneuvers is to accurately image and process craters on the moon’s surface. The data will then be used for further analysis and decision making.
Although JAXA has not announced an exact lunar landing date, the agency estimates that it will take approximately three to four months from the launch for SLIM to reach the moon. By taking a longer route, SLIM can conserve fuel and reduce the overall weight of the spacecraft.
Once on the moon, SLIM aims to demonstrate its ability to touch down within 328 feet (100 meters) of its target point. This crucial test will verify landing techniques that can make it easier and more feasible to explore challenging landing areas on other celestial bodies.
The SLIM mission represents the latest effort by JAXA to contribute to lunar research and exploration. By safely landing on the moon’s surface, SLIM will pave the way for future missions and advancements in space exploration technology.