By South China Morning Post | Created at 2025-03-06 19:51:19 | Updated at 2025-03-06 23:08:15
3 hours ago
Intuitive Machines said on Thursday that its robotic Athena lander has landed on the moon’s surface but details of the spacecraft’s status and health remained unclear, a tense moment in the company’s second such attempt.
The six-legged Athena, carrying 11 payloads and scientific instruments, targeted its landing site some 160km (100 miles) from the lunar south pole for a touchdown timed for 12.32pm.
But by that time, the lander’s engine was still running, telemetry showed, as it appeared to hover over the moon. Minutes later, after commanding the lander’s engine to shut down, the company confirmed Athena “is on the surface of the moon”, but its exact orientation was unclear.
Intuitive Machines ended its mission live stream and said a press conference is scheduled for 4pm.
Intuitive Machines’ shares fell more than 20 per cent in afternoon trading. The stock has more than doubled in the past year.
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Commercial US spacecraft touches down on the moon in a historic first for private industry
Commercial US spacecraft touches down on the moon in a historic first for private industry
The space start-up is one of many companies primed by Nasa to return the United States to the moon. The focus on private companies is seen as lower cost but higher risk.
