The X Prize Foundation and NASA have launched the $2.5 million Lunar Lander Challenge to build a better spacecraft and boost plans for a manned return trip to the moon.
There will actually be two competitions that will simulate takeoff and landing on the moon. In the easier one, vehicles will lift off to 150 feet above the ground and hover for 90 seconds before landing on an smooth surface 100 meters away. In the second competition, the vehicles are required to lift off 150 feet above the ground, hover for 180 seconds and land 100 meters away in an area that is similar to the rocky lunar surface.
Talkback
More ZDNet Photo Galleries
The Green Enterprise
-
- A look into the enterprise to explore eco-friendly practices and innovations. In this ZDNet video series learn about what's motivating green tech, and how green technologies are impacting IT. 0:42
-
Harnessing the power of waves
3:13
-
Planting solar gardens
5:06
-
Fill your car for $1.10 a gallon?
1:43
- All series videos »
