Intuitive Machines launches lunar lander Athena towards moon

Intuitive Machines launched its lunar lander, Athena, on February 27, 2025, aiming for a March 6 landing near the moon's south pole. This mission follows a previous attempt where their lander tipped over upon landing. Athena will target a crater that never sees sunlight, where a drone named Grace will conduct test hops and gather data. NASA is funding this mission with $62 million, while Intuitive Machines has partnered with other companies for additional payloads. This launch is part of a growing trend, with multiple companies attempting lunar landings simultaneously. The mission aims to explore potential ice deposits in shadowed craters, which could be vital for future lunar exploration.