An image of the Chang'e-6 lunar probe's lander-ascender combination taken by a mini rover brought to the far side of the moon by the probe. /CNSA
A photo of the Chang'e-6 probe's lander-ascender combination on the far side of the moon has captured a historic moment in human lunar exploration.
Released by the China National Space Administration (CNSA) on June 4, the photo was taken by a mini rover that was carried to the moon by the Chang'e-6 mission.
The autonomous, intelligent mini robot was attached to the lander during the mission's journey to the moon and its moon landing, according to the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), its developer.
The mini rover is shown in the red circle of the picture of the Chang'e-6 lunar probe. /China Academy of Space Technology
After Chang'e-6 collected samples on the far side of the moon, the mini rover autonomously detached from the lander, moved to a suitable position, selected an ideal angle, and captured the image.
Weighing approximately 5 kilograms, the mini rover is much lighter than Yutu, China's first lunar rover, which was roughly equivalent in weight to two adults.
Despite its compact size, the mini rover is highly capable and has significantly enhanced autonomous intelligence, according to CASC.
Its innovative actions mark a significant stride forward in the development of autonomous intelligence in China's deep space exploration endeavors, promising a positive impact on future lunar explorations, CASC added.
The Chang'e-6 probe has collected samples from the far side of the moon and is currently in lunar orbit, awaiting the optimal time for its return journey.
(With input from Xinhua)