Intuitive Machines’ Nova-C lunar rover, aptly named Odysseus, is not only on its way to the moon, which it will land on February 22, but has already transmitted breathtaking images of the Earth.
The first batch of photos published today on X (formerly Twitter) paints a picture of Odyssey’s successful voyage. A portrait of our blue planet is visible – a testament to the powerful camera system of the spacecraft. The series also includes “selfies” showing the landing gear design and even captured the second stage of the SpaceX Falcon 9 taking off and shrinking in the distance.
A unique perspective of Tropical Cyclone Lincoln near northern Australia, as seen by @Int_Machines IM-1 on its way to the Moon 🚀 pic.twitter.com/lknFsgnblC
– Zoom Earth (@zoom_earth) February 18, 2024
In addition to the visual pleasures, Intuitive Machines confirmed via X that Odysseus is in “excellent condition,” exceeding expectations and successfully passing critical milestones such as engine start-up. This feat marks a historic moment – “the first ever ignition of an engine in space using liquid methane and liquid oxygen.”
In anticipation of this event, the team continues to post updates on the X website, detailing Odysseus’ progress as it moves along its lunar trajectory.
