Researchers from the UK and Japan have used a machine-learning algorithm to propose several potential locations for the Soviet Luna 9 spacecraft’s landing site, which has remained unidentified for decades. The study, led by Lewis Pinault at University College London, was published in npj Space Exploration. The team plans to verify their findings with data from India’s Chandrayaan-2 orbiter.
The algorithm analyzed lunar surface features to narrow down candidate sites, providing new insights into the historic mission. This approach represents a novel application of artificial intelligence in planetary science.
**Why this matters**
Luna 9 was the first spacecraft to achieve a soft landing on the Moon in 1966, marking a significant milestone in space exploration. Identifying its exact landing site could enhance understanding of early lunar missions and improve the accuracy of lunar maps. Additionally, the study demonstrates how AI can assist in solving longstanding space exploration mysteries.
Source: NewsData