Space/Science — HabitableZone

Space/Science

The CHANG-E 1 Lunar orbiter maybe in trouble.

According to an article in Aviation Week & Space Technology
magazine, the CHANG-E 1 Lunar orbiter will experience a 5.5 hour
long period of darkness during an eclipse on February, 21st while in Lunar orbit.

During the 5.5. hour long period of darkness, CHANG-E 1 will
have to rely entirely on its batteries.
And worse. The Lunar orbiter will experience a rapid temperature
drop of 130 degrees Celsius, likely to damage if not permanently cripple
and disable its electronics, turning the craft into a silent, orbiting derelict.

No mention is made in the article about the KAYUGA Lunar orbiter.
I assume that its lunar orbital inclination will keep it 'safe'.

If CHANG-E 1 survives the February 21 eclipse intact, it will have
to endure another one in August.

Izzy

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