LCROSS

LCROSS, which stands for Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite, was a NASA robotic space mission. Its primary objective was to search for water ice in a permanently shadowed crater near the Moon's south pole. The mission involved two components: the LCROSS spacecraft and its Centaur upper stage rocket. On October 9, 2009, the Centaur upper stage was intentionally impacted into the Cabeus crater. Moments later, the LCROSS spacecraft flew through the resulting plume of ejected material. Instruments on board analyzed the debris for the presence of water and other volatile compounds. Data collected by LCROSS confirmed the presence of water in the lunar soil. The mission provided valuable insights into the Moon's water resources and the potential for future lunar exploration and utilization. LCROSS was launched on June 18, 2009, as a companion mission to NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. The successful confirmation of water ice on the Moon marked a significant achievement in lunar science.