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Rigel-1 Lunar Probe
Rigel-1 Lunar Probe
The Rigel-1 Lunar Probe, operated by CALA and constructed by primary contractors Acelias, Aeromada, and Corindi Dynamics, was intended to photograph the surface of the moon from orbit and perform a chemical and mineralogical analysis of the lunar surface. Following this, the probe was de-orbited and the lander portion successfully touched down in the Mar Vaporum (Sea of Vapors) on May 29th, 2019. Once landed, it took pictures of its surroundings and conducted basic spectrographic tests, the results of which are still being analyzed by CALA scientists. The probe was able to land within 1 meter of its target landing point.
The probe was launched into lunar orbit by the Constelación II launch vehicle, with the launch taking place on the island of Quital on May 14th of 2019.
A plaque commemorating the intrepid Corindi astronauts, scientists, and engineers of CALA is mounted on the lander portion of the probe, as well as a retroreflector for laser ranging.