Intuitive Machines' Athena mission landed on the Moon but has ended due to its sideways position and inability to recharge. The lunar lander's landing, which occurred in the Mons Mouton region, was significant as it is the southernmost point reached by any probe. Previously, the company's first mission encountered problems with its laser rangefinders, causing both probes to struggle with orientation. Despite the challenges, NASA's investment in commercial lunar missions like Athena highlights a shift towards private partnerships for space exploration.
With the direction of the Sun, the orientation of the solar panels, and extreme cold temperatures in the crater, Intuitive Machines does not expect Athena to recharge.
This marked the Houston-based company's second lunar mission. The first one, a little more than a year ago, suffered a problem with its laser rangefinders prior to landing.
Intuitive Machines has not yet said precisely what happened in Athena's final moments before it reached the Moon on Thursday.
The Athena mission was funded in significant part by NASA. The space agency has begun to hire commercial companies like Intuitive Machines to deliver scientific experiments to the lunar surface.
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