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Europe That Much Smarter On Luna One Year On
Paris, France (ESA) Sep 03, 2007 A year ago, as Europe reached the Moon for the first time, scientists on Earth eagerly watched SMART-1's spectacular impact. New results from the impact analysis and from the instruments still keep coming. One year on, we present ongoing scientific highlights of the mission. The analysis of data and simulations of the satellite's impact provide clues on the dynamics of the ejecta after the flash, along with laboratory experiments or modelling of impacts. The experience gained is being put to good use in preparation for future missions. SMART-1 addresses various scientific themes that answer questions on the physical processes at work on Earth-like planets and how they evolve. The moon is a laboratory for geophysics where impacts, volcanism, tectonics and effects of space weather can be studied to put together the story of its past. The geochemistry and origins of the Moon, the evolution of the Earth-Moon system and the bombardment of the inner solar system are topics addressed under lunar formation and evolution. Experience gained from SMART-1 is helping prepare the ground for future science and exploration missions. With its unrivalled resolution, in colour and with various illumination angles, the satellite has mapped the polar regions, surveyed lunar resources and investigated potential landing sites and outposts. "Know-how and data from SMART-1 is forming a bridge for international collaboration and European contribution to upcoming lunar Missions," says Bernard Foing, ESA's SMART-1 Project scientist. "After SMART-1's final touchdown at 2 km/s, everybody asks: when will Europe land softly on the Moon?" he adds. In the context of ESA's Aurora Exploration programme and its preparatory activities for a Mars Sample Return mission, a call of ideas was issued for the Next Exploration Science and Technology mission (NEXT) in April 2007. It resulted in more than 70 responses, including more than 30 lunar proposals. Future European lunar missions concern a large community interested in the scientific and technological potential of lunar landers and sample return missions. Related Links SMART-1 Mars News and Information at MarsDaily.com Lunar Dreams and more
Russia plans manned Moon mission by 2025
Moscow (AFP) Aug 31, 2007Russia plans to send a manned mission to the Moon by 2025 and wants to build a permanent base there shortly after, the head of Russian space agency Roskosmos said Friday. |
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