Chinese space engineers have disclosed that the "secret photographer" was an autonomous, intelligent mini robot developed by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC). Weighing less than 5 kilograms, the mini robot was attached to the Chang'e 6 lander and was released to capture the image after the probe completed its sample collection.
The robot, the first of its kind to operate on the far side of the moon, autonomously detached from the lander, maneuvered to an optimal position, selected the perfect angle, and took the now-iconic photograph. Despite its small size, the robot is equipped with advanced autonomous intelligence, enabling it to perform tasks that would be challenging for traditional systems.
Xing Yan, a researcher at CASC, explained that the robot is equipped with artificial intelligence technologies based on neural networks, allowing it to "think and judge like a human." This capability was crucial for tasks such as adjusting the camera angle to capture the best possible shot.
Unlike traditional lunar photography missions that rely on precise calculations for positioning and timing, the robot on the Chang'e 6 mission was able to autonomously refine its approach, ensuring the highest quality images without requiring exact computations.
To prepare the robot for the unique lighting conditions on the moon's far side, researchers conducted extensive training. "We used various lights to simulate the environment," said Huang Huang, another CASC researcher. This included using fishing lamps, camping lights, and stage lighting to expose the robot to different scenarios, helping it to develop intelligent photographic decision-making.
Beyond its intelligence, the mini robot was also designed to withstand the harsh environment of the moon's far side, characterized by rugged terrain, including mountains, deep valleys, and craters. The research team performed numerous simulations to ensure the robot could navigate and operate effectively in such challenging conditions.
Throughout the development process, the team faced numerous setbacks, often questioning their design principles. However, "no matter how challenging, exhausting or stressful the situation was, we managed to calm ourselves down and address the issues first," Xing said.
Despite its technological sophistication, the mini robot was built cost-effectively. As the technology matures, its potential applications are broad, ranging from household assistants and educational robots to inspection devices for confined spaces like narrow caves or pipelines.
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