Japanese Moon Probe SLIM Faces Recharge Hurdle, Hopeful for Solar Power Boost

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) revealed that a small unmanned probe, Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM), currently stranded on the moon, might resume recharging in a few days.

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The setback occurred when SLIM, having landed on the moon with its solar panels facing west, found itself unable to access sunlight. JAXA suggests that the probe’s recharging prospects could improve with a change in the sun’s angle.

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During its flight, SLIM’s solar panels successfully generated power. However, after landing, JAXA utilized the probe’s internal battery for data extraction, including photographs. The probe was strategically shut down approximately two and a half hours post-landing to prevent complete power depletion, ensuring the possibility of reactivation in the future.