For a permanent lunar base, such mechanical failures could spell disaster. (discovermagazine.com)
Along with rumours of a hovering lunar base, there are reports that the agency is considering a proposal to capture an asteroid and drag it into the moon's orbit. (newscientist.com)
WHY: To study the moon's interior and look for mineral resources, with the ultimate goal of establishing a fully robotic lunar base. (discovermagazine.com)