NASA and JAXA Successfully Exchange Laser Signals Between Moon's Surface and Orbit

NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) has successfully transmitted a laser pulse to a retroreflector aboard JAXA's SLIM lander on the Moon, achieving a return signal during two orbits on May 24, 2024. The LRO passed 44 miles above SLIM, and despite the retroreflector's suboptimal positioning, the signal was successfully bounced back to LRO's detector. This required the collaborative efforts of the LRO and SLIM teams, who worked with JAXA to determine the exact location and orientation of SLIM to optimize the chances of a successful transmission.

The successful laser communication marks a significant milestone, as it demonstrates the potential for retroreflectors to serve as reliable beacons for future lunar missions. These devices, which can remain functional for decades, could assist in guiding astronauts to the lunar surface in low visibility conditions or help in landing spacecraft near designated locations. This achievement follows a previous successful laser transmission from LRO to ISRO's Vikram lander on December 12, 2023.