Danuri, South Korea’s first lunar probe, transmits images of the Earth and the Moon

South Korea’s first lunar probe Danuri, transmitted stunning black and white photographs of the lunar surface and Earththe South Korean space center reported on Tuesday.

Danuri -a contraction of “Dal”, which means Moon, and “Nuri” which means enjoy- took off in August from the United States aboard a SpaceX rocket and was inserted into lunar orbit in December, after a long flight to save fuel.

These images, taken between December 24 and January 1, were taken less than 120 kilometers from the lunar surface, according to a statement from the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI).

The photos and videos will beused to select sites likely to host a moon landing in 2032″, he added.

Danuri makes a complete orbit around the Moon every two hours, the space center said.

The orbiter will begin its science mission next month, during which it will map and analyze the lunar surface, and make magnetic force and gamma ray measurements.

You will also try the “space internet”, an experimental technology, transmitting photos and videos to Earth.

President Yoon Suk Yeol celebrated Danuri’s exploits in December, speaking of a “Historic moment” in the history of the South Korean space program.

South Korea has laid out ambitious space plans, including landing a spacecraft by 2032 and sending a lander to Mars by 2045. (I)