Automated Technology Allows Unparalleled Space Exploration from Moon, to Asteroids, and Beyond – SciTechDaily

When landing Apollo 11 in 1969, astronauts looked out the window for distinguishing features that they recognized from maps of the Moon and were able to steer the lander to avoid a disastrous touchdown on top of a rocky area. Now, 50 years later, the process can be automated. Distinguishing features, like known craters, boulders, or other unique surface characteristics, provide insight into surface hazards to help avoid them while landing.
NASA scientists and engineers are maturing technology for…

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