Intuitive Machines launches second moon lander, Athena

Intuitive Machines is preparing to launch its second moon lander, Athena, from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The launch is scheduled for 7:17 p.m. on Wednesday, with a four-day window if needed. Athena features a "hopper" rover for mobility tests. This mission aims to improve upon the company's first attempt, which ended with a hard landing. Engineers have enhanced the lander's laser altimeter to prevent similar issues. Athena's mission is set to last ten days, with a landing attempt expected on March 10. Athena carries various scientific instruments, including technology from Nokia for 4G communications and NASA tools to drill into the moon's surface. If successful, it will be the third spacecraft heading to the moon, following Firefly's Blue Ghost lander.