China's Yutu-2 lunar rover has made headlines once again by sending back breathtaking images from the far side of the moon, as reported by China Media Group (CMG). This milestone marks Yutu-2 as the longest-operating rover on the lunar surface, having traversed 1,613 meters since its landing.
Launched as part of the Chang'e-4 mission, Yutu-2, also known as Jade Rabbit-2, successfully touched down in the Von Karman Crater within the South Pole-Aitken Basin on January 3, 2019. Originally designed for a three-month mission, the rover has impressively exceeded expectations by operating for nearly five years and nine months, completing its work well beyond its intended lifespan.
One of the most captivating images sent back on September 10 features the rover leaving behind marks on the lunar terrain that intriguingly resemble a mooncake, a traditional treat associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. Zuo Wei, the deputy chief designer of the Chang'e-4 mission's ground application system, suggested that this pattern may symbolize a celebration of the festival, which holds significant cultural importance in China.
\"I think maybe it's because the Mid-Autumn Festival is approaching, and it wants to draw a mooncake pattern to echo the festive theme,\" Zuo explained to CMG.
The Yutu-2 rover's continued success not only showcases China's advancements in space exploration but also reflects the deep cultural connections intertwined with scientific achievements.
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China's Yutu-2 lunar rover beams back images from moon's far side
cgtn.com