A privately-owned US lunar lander, known as the Peregrine lander, is currently on a trajectory towards Earth, having faced complications during its journey. The lander has been dealing with a fuel leak since the beginning of its problematic expedition, which commenced with its launch on a new Vulcan rocket from United Launch Alliance on January 8.
The Peregrine lander’s troubles escalated soon after separating from the rocket, marked by an onboard explosion. Subsequently, it became evident that the lander would not achieve a gentle lunar landing due to the significant loss of propellant. Despite these challenges, Astrobotic, the company behind the mission, has been providing regular updates on the lander’s status. Notably, the team managed to activate and conduct science experiments on board for NASA and other space agencies, gathering valuable spaceflight data despite the unexpected turn of events.
As the lander is now directed towards Earth, it is anticipated that it will likely burn up upon re-entry into the atmosphere. This development marks a disappointing end to the mission, highlighting the complexities and risks associated with space exploration endeavors. a trajectory towards
The Pittsburgh-based company, Astrobotic, has provided an updated assessment indicating that its spacecraft, the Peregrine lander, is now on a trajectory towards Earth, where it is expected to burn up in the planet’s atmosphere. The team is actively evaluating options, with further updates to be communicated as soon as possible. The box-shaped robot has been in space for over five days and is currently situated 242,000 miles (390,000 kilometers) from Earth.
Space enthusiasts monitoring Peregrine’s journey had initially hoped for a “hard landing” on the Moon, but it is now evident that even this reduced goal will not be achieved. Alongside scientific equipment, the spacecraft is carrying cargo for private clients, including items such as a sports drink can, a physical Bitcoin, as well as human and animal ashes and DNA.
Astrobotic joins the ranks of private entities facing challenges in achieving a successful soft landing, following setbacks by an Israeli nonprofit and a Japanese company. NASA had invested over $100 million in Astrobotic for transporting its cargo, part of the Commercial Lunar Payload Services program aimed at fostering a commercial lunar economy and reducing NASA’s operational costs.
Despite the current setback, NASA emphasizes a strategy of “more shots on goal,” acknowledging that more attempts increase the chances of success. The next lunar landing attempt, led by Houston-based Intuitive Machines, is scheduled for February. Astrobotic will also have another opportunity in November, with its Griffin lander set to transport NASA’s VIPER rover to the lunar south pole.