Tech Glossary
What is LRO?
The LRO, or Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, is a space probe sent up by NASA in 2009 to explore and map the Moon. LRO has a variety of instruments on board that make it possible to study the Moon's surface in detail, including camera, laser and radar instruments. Using data collected by LRO, scientists have been able to create high-resolution maps of the Moon's surface, identify potential locations for future lunar landings and investigate lunar geology and topography. LRO has also enabled studies of how the surface of the Moon changes over time by monitoring phenomena such as lunar temperature variations and craters formed by meteors. Although LRO primarily focuses on studying the Moon, it has also had the opportunity to make observations of other celestial bodies, including Earth and other planets in the solar system. The LRO has been a valuable resource in increasing our understanding of the Moon and its role in the Solar System.