OHB performed a self-financed study on behalf of European space agencies to design lander vehicles for missions to the lunar south pole.

The south pole of the moon offers unique possibilities for scientific research as part of this region is bathed in almost constant sunlight. At the same time, some craters have been shrouded in permanent darkness for millions of years and scientists assume that water may be found there. Meteorite impact has left deep craters at the lunar south pole in particular, bringing material from deep regions inside the moon to the surface. This material arose in the early stages of the development of our solar system and thus constitutes a unique archive for geophysicists, geochemists and solar system researchers.

Missions to the south pole of the moon seek to obtain a greater understanding of the structure and development of the universe, our solar system and our earth. In addition, technology for future exploration missions to the moon and Mars are to be prepared.

As a core element of such missions, the landers will set down softly in the mountainous terrain of the lunar south pole automatically and completely autonomously. These landers will be carrying on board scientific payloads and rovers to transport the research equipment to locations at distances of up to several kilometers from the lander.

Details at a glance:

Status:

Phase A studies, feasibility demonstrated

Lander:

Dry weight: approx. 800 kg
Payload: approx. 40 kg
Rover: approx. 60 kg

Scientific disciplines:

Geology, geophysics, geochemistry, biology, astronomy