The unmanned craft was due to make a soft landing on the Moon's south pole.

Russia’s Luna-25 spacecraft has crashed into the Moon after spinning into an uncontrolled orbit, officials say.

The unmanned craft was due to make a soft landing on the Moon’s south pole, but failed after encountering issues as it moved into its pre-landing orbit.

It was Russia’s first Moon mission in almost 50 years.

The spacecraft was scheduled to land on Monday to explore a part of the Moon which scientists think could hold frozen water and precious elements.

Roskosmos, Russia’s state space corporation, said it lost contact with the Luna-25 shortly after running into difficulties.

  • Misconduct
    3·
    11 months ago

    So… They were kinda low-key racing India weren’t they? Does this count? Did they win the race? I’m just glad it was unmanned

    • Agamemnon@lemmy.worldM
      41·
      11 months ago

      Not really. That probe was scheduled to go up 10 years ago - with collaboration from India. It’s more a case of India going “F that, we’re doing it ourselves now” - And russia lagging behind so much, they actually got lapped.