December 1, 2022
On this date in 2013, China launched the robotic lunar exploration lander Chang’e 3, with China’s first lunar rover, Yutu-hao (‘jade rabbit’). Rover Yutu explored its landing area in Mare Imbrium and sent back pictures of the surface of the Moon for several weeks.
An image of the Chang’e lander taken by the Yutu rover from 2013. The Yutu rover formed part of the Chang’e 3 mission. Image credit: CNSA/CLEP