Summary:
- NASA's Lunar Trailblazer is a small satellite mission that will study the Moon's water cycle and surface composition. It aims to provide new insights into the distribution and abundance of water on the lunar surface.
- The mission will use a spectrometer to map the Moon's surface and detect water signatures, as well as a thermal radiometer to measure surface temperatures and heat flow. This data will help scientists understand how water is transported and stored on the Moon.
- Lunar Trailblazer is part of NASA's Small Satellite program, which focuses on developing low-cost, rapidly deployable spacecraft to advance scientific research and technology development. The mission is scheduled to launch in 2024 and will operate in a low lunar orbit for at least one year.