Intuitive Machines' Second Moon Lander Fails

Intuitive Machines’ Athena Lander Mission Concludes

The Athena lunar lander, developed by Intuitive Machines, has ceased operations following a brief period on the moon’s south pole. The lander experienced an issue with its orientation shortly after touchdown, ultimately leading to the end of the mission.

Despite the premature conclusion, the company reports successful completion of several key objectives and the deployment of select scientific experiments. These deployments occurred before the lander’s power supply was exhausted.

A Second Landing with Challenges

This marks the second consecutive lunar landing for Intuitive Machines that has encountered difficulties post-touchdown. Their previous spacecraft, Odysseus, also tipped over after achieving a landing last February.

The challenges faced by the Athena mission are noteworthy, especially considering Intuitive Machines’ recent selection by NASA for a significant project.

Lunar Communications Contract

NASA has contracted Intuitive Machines to assist in the development of a lunar communications system. This contract has a potential value of up to $4.8 billion, with an initial guaranteed amount of $150 million.

Power Constraints and Mission End

The inability of Athena to recharge its batteries is attributed to the positioning of its solar panels. This, combined with the sun’s angle and the frigid temperatures within the landing crater, prevented sufficient power generation.

According to the company’s statement on Friday, data collection is ongoing as teams analyze the information gathered throughout the mission’s duration.

Successful Experiment Deployment

Intuitive Machines confirmed the successful deployment of NASA’s Polar Resources Ice Mining Experiment. This experiment features a drill capable of penetrating up to three feet beneath the lunar surface.

Beyond this, the lander carried additional payloads, including: