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.

  • paddirn@lemmy.world
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    1 year ago

    Any setback for science is a setback for humanity… but at the same time, Russia fucking up is not totally unexpected.

    • uis@lemmy.world
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      1 year ago

      Well, if 80% of budget is stolen for new Rogozin’s mansion, I’m surprised it didn’t explode at lauch pad.