From exploring the moon and Mars to venturing deeper into the solar system, 2024 marked a year of extraordinary achievements in space exploration. Here are some key highlights:
Lunar Triumphs and Challenges
Japan’s SLIM Spacecraft
In January, Japan’s SLIM (Smart Lander for Investigating the Moon) achieved a remarkable precision landing on the rim of a lunar crater. Designed to operate for one lunar day (two Earth weeks), the lander exceeded expectations by transmitting data for three months.
China’s Chang’e 6 Mission
In June, China’s Chang’e 6 became the first spacecraft to collect samples from the moon’s far side. Early analysis revealed fluffier soil compared to the nearside and volcanic activity on the farside dating back 2.8 billion years.
Private Companies Join the Race
Houston-based Intuitive Machines landed its Odysseus spacecraft near the moon’s south pole in February. Though it toppled after touchdown, data from its six-day mission could inform NASA’s upcoming Artemis human moon landings.
Mars Explorers Make Headlines
Farewell to Ingenuity
NASA bid goodbye to Ingenuity, the first helicopter on Mars, in January. Originally intended for just five flights, the helicopter far exceeded expectations with 72 flights over nearly three years.
Perseverance’s Microbial Clues
In July, the Perseverance rover discovered a rock containing hints of ancient microbes. However, NASA’s planned Mars Sample Return mission faces budgetary uncertainty, leaving the future of this discovery in question.
Private Spaceflight: Highs and Lows
SpaceX Milestones
In September, SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission achieved the first all-civilian spacewalk, tested new spacesuits, and gathered critical radiation and physiological data. Astronaut Sarah Gillis even became the first person to play a violin in space.
Boeing Starliner Troubles
Meanwhile, Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft faced setbacks. A malfunction delayed the return of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who remain aboard the ISS until February 2025, awaiting a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.
New Frontiers Beyond Earth
NEOWISE Retires
NASA’s NEOWISE telescope, which observed thousands of asteroids and comets over its 14-year mission, was retired in August. Its successor, NEO Surveyor, is scheduled to launch in 2027.
BepiColombo’s Mercury Flybys
The BepiColombo spacecraft, a joint European-Japanese mission, made its closest approach to Mercury in September, offering unprecedented views of the planet’s cratered south pole. The mission will enter Mercury’s orbit in 2026.
Europa Clipper Launch
In October, NASA launched the Europa Clipper, which will study Jupiter’s icy moon Europa a prime candidate for extraterrestrial life beginning in 2030. The spacecraft will conduct nearly 50 flybys to investigate the moon’s subsurface ocean while minimizing exposure to Jupiter’s intense radiation.
2024 was a year of innovation, resilience, and discovery in space exploration, setting the stage for even greater adventures in the years ahead.
