Science & Space
NASA Demonstrates Autonomous Landing Technology for Moon and Planetary Missions
NASA tested technology that helps spacecraft autonomously navigate toward safer landing sites on the Moon and other planets.
What happened
An Alta-X drone carrying NASA’s Safe and Precise Landing – Integrated Capabilities Evolution guidance, navigation and control payload completed simulated lunar descent and landing manoeuvres on August 27. The demonstration tested autonomous navigation technology designed to help spacecraft identify and reach safe landing sites on the Moon and other planets.
Why it matters
Successful testing supports spacecraft landing without relying entirely on ground-directed navigation, including during missions to the Moon and other planetary destinations.
Source: NASA