Skip to main content /SPACE
CNN.com /SPACE
CNN TV
EDITIONS





Moon probe to map 'Peak of Eternal Light'

The moon through the filtered lens of NASA's Galileo craft on its way to Jupiter
The moon through the filtered lens of NASA's Galileo craft on its way to Jupiter  


By Richard Stenger
CNN

(CNN) -- A lunar satellite in the works will photograph some of the most secluded spots on the moon, including dark craters thought to contain ice and a strange mountain where the sun always shines.

The European Space Agency spacecraft will make the most accurate maps ever of the moon, according to project scientists. The $91 million probe is expected to launch early next year.

Besides producing a three-dimensional model of the lunar surface, the SMART-1 mission will focus its attention on the mysterious south pole region, including the Peak of Eternal Light, which is perpetually bathed in sunlight.

Despite the cosmic blast, solar rays never illuminate the interiors of some nearby craters and the orbiter will be the first to study the hidden recesses in great detail.

What might they contain? Scientists speculate deposits of frozen water, a precious resource that could someday support human explorers. The best place to locate a settlement might be nearby.

"I think that if a lunar outpost will be settled, a possible site would be near the Peak of Eternal Light," project scientist Giuseppe Racca said Friday.

Explorers could tap into the constant sun supply for solar energy, rather than relying on bulky batteries or a dangerous nuclear reactor.

"If in the same area water ice was to be available, this would certainly give an additional boost to the site selection" Racca said.

Besides imaging systems, SMART-1 will be equipped with X-ray and infrared instruments to study elements and minerals, including metal ores.

"The mineral mapping helps in understanding the evolution of the moon," Racca said. "In addition, this will provide a mapping of potential resources."

Besides conducting lots of science, the probe is designed to test-drive loads of experimental technology. It will fly with a new solar-powered thruster that is 10 times more efficient than previous propulsion systems.

If all goes well on the two-year mission, the engine could become standard issue on future ESA craft sent into deep space, the agency said.



 
 
 
 


RELATED STORIES:
RELATED SITE:
Note: Pages will open in a new browser window
External sites are not endorsed by CNN Interactive.


 Search   

Back to the top