Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost lunar lander has taken its first stunning images as it orbits Earth, providing breathtaking views of our planet from space. The Texas-based company, which launched the lander on January 15, has been sharing videos and images in the weeks since launch.
The lander captured footage of the Earth eclipsing the sun, as well as dramatic “Blue Marble” views of the planet. It also recorded the Earth eclipsing the moon on January 31. The Blue Ghost is currently in a 25-day Earth orbit, with an upcoming engine burn set to propel it out of Earth’s vicinity.
After the burn, Blue Ghost will start its journey to the moon, where it will begin a series of scientific tests and sample collection. The lander is packed with science payloads for NASA and aims to capture critical data that will pave the way for a lasting lunar presence.
The company has shared two images of the moon, including one showing the Earth from space. Firefly’s Blue Ghost team, led by chief engineer Will Coogan, hopes to capture more breathtaking imagery on its journey.
Source: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/see-the-first-stunning-images-taken-by-the-blue-ghost-lunar-lander-on-its-scenic-route-to-the-moon-180985988