Firefly Aerospace has released breathtaking footage of its Blue Ghost lander descending onto the Moon’s surface. The 100km-high video, sped up by 10X, shows the far side of the Moon and the lander’s RCS thrusters and radiator panels in action.
The mission is one of three NASA-contracted flights for Firefly Aerospace, with the next landing scheduled for 2026 on the far side of the Moon. Future missions will include a rover to explore mysterious lunar features and provide data on lunar habitability prospects.
Landing on the Moon is challenging due to its lack of atmosphere and rough terrain, making precise descent control difficult. However, if successful, Blue Ghost’s science payload will capture valuable data for 14 Earth days, including a solar eclipse and lunar sunset.
The lander’s operation will last several hours into the lunar night before shutting down permanently, as temperatures can drop below -246 degrees Celsius (-410 Fahrenheit). Live updates are available on Firefly Aerospace’s mission blog.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/blue-ghost-captures-stunning-moon-footage-ahead-of-historic-landing