Recently, China's Yutu-2 rover detected a fascinating cube-shaped object on the Moon's far side. Mission controllers are detouring to investigate it closely, but patience is required.
Positioned in Von Karman Crater within the South Pole-Aitken Basin, the Yutu-2 rover and its lander spotted this intriguing feature on the 36th lunar day last November, visible on the horizon amid the crater terrain.
Likely a rock exposed by an ancient impact, the object has captured the team's attention, prompting a targeted detour for detailed analysis. But when might it arrive?
Engineers estimate the object is roughly 80 meters away—a deceptively short distance given the mission's challenges.
Though capable of 200 meters per hour at top speed, Yutu-2 has traversed only about 900 meters since landing in January 2019. The solar-powered rover powers down during 14.5-Earth-day lunar nights, plus about 24 hours after sunrise and before sunset. It also halts at lunar noon when temperatures exceed 120°C, protecting its sensitive electronics.
Route planning is meticulous: Teams create topographic maps from rover images to identify hazards. Paths average 8-10 meters per segment, dodging craters that could ensnare the vehicle.
Yutu-2's instruments—panoramic cameras, near-infrared spectrometer, and ground-penetrating radar—require frequent stops for data collection en route.
Communications rely on a relay satellite, as the far side faces away from Earth, adding another layer of complexity.
Accounting for these factors, experts project arrival in three to five Earth months.
