China unveils confidential small robot for lunar mission

The mini robot, weighing about 5 kg, successfully landed on the far side of the Moon during the Chang’e 6 mission, capturing images of the lander with the Chinese flag. The China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) launched the Long March 5 rocket carrying vehicles for the Chang’e 6 mission on May 3. After the launch, CAST released new images of the mission, revealing the small robot attached to the lunar lander. This new information sparked curiosity among space science enthusiasts.

The Chang’e 6 lander touched down in the Apollo crater in the Antarctic-Aitken basin on June 1. The rover was deployed two days later after completing sample collection activities on the Moon. The small robot autonomously moved away from the lander and took a dramatic photo showcasing the lander, launch vehicle, solar panels, landing legs, sampling arms, and an elevated Chinese flag made of basalt fiber.

According to the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the mini robot has significantly enhanced its autonomous capabilities. CASC, the developer of the robot, mentioned that it automatically separated from the lander, moved to the right position, and chose the ideal angle for taking photos. This development in autonomous intelligence represents a substantial step forward in China’s deep space exploration efforts, promising positive impacts on future lunar exploration missions.

Weighing only 5 kg, the mini robot from the Chang’e 6 mission is much smaller and lighter compared to China’s previous lunar robots, Jade Rabbit and Jade Rabbit 2. China did not provide detailed information about the mission, suggesting that the lander and robot might have ceased operation when the launch vehicle sped off into orbit. Currently, the estimated 2 kg lunar sample is in the Chang’e 6 mission’s respirator compartment, scheduled to return to Earth on June 25.