Odysseus, the private probe that recently landed on the moon, has encountered a setback. The probe, manufactured by Intuitive Machines, appears to have overturned after landing. CEO Steve Altemus revealed at a press conference that the probe struck the moon’s surface with one foot first and then lay on its side, resting on a rock.
While some parts of the probe are functioning, such as its ability to take and send a photo, there are significant limitations. Some of the antennas point downward, preventing the probe from sending or receiving data linked to research experiments on board. Altemus expressed concern about the communication limitations and the impact on the mission’s success.
The landing was initially announced as a success, but it was later revealed that the data were based on misinterpreted information. The probe’s laser-based navigation technology failed during landing, leading the crew to perform a software update and switch to an alternative, experimental NASA system. Altemus attributed the problem to a missed manual safety switch activation, acknowledging it as a mistake on their part.
The incident raises questions about the effectiveness of the probe and the implications for its mission objectives. With the probe’s current limitations, it is unclear what impact it can have on lunar research and exploration. Intuitive Machines will need to address the technical challenges and consider innovative solutions to ensure the probe’s success in fulfilling its mission.
