A two-dimensional lander proposed by NASA for exploration of planets According to a recent report from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), NASA has approved the development of a revolutionary "two-dimensional planetary surface lander." This innovative design resembles a small, flexible carpet that could be deployed in large numbers on distant worlds. If successful, this technology could soon enable landings on outer planets or even asteroids. The 2D lander is one of 12 proposals selected under NASA’s Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) program. These ideas are designed to push the boundaries of space exploration, offering new capabilities and more cost-effective methods for future missions. NASA will provide initial funding to bring this concept to life. Dr. Hamid Hemati, the lead researcher from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, described the lander as a "flying carpet" made of soft, flexible electronics. He explained, “Current Mars rovers are large, expensive, and have only one chance to land. They’re limited in where they can go due to risk. Our design is much cheaper and can be deployed in hundreds at once. Even if some fail, others can keep exploring.†The lander’s flat, lightweight structure allows it to be mass-produced and equipped with sensors, power systems, and communication devices using a "printing" technique. Its solar panels and electronics can bend and flex, similar to modern smartphones and laptops. Hemati added, “This technology is already advancing, and we can use it to carry advanced tools like on-chip labs.†Unlike traditional landers, these 2D units don’t require complex landing systems or propulsion. They can be dropped from a spacecraft and simply land on the surface. Hemati said, “This is a completely new approach to exploring other worlds. We’re looking into using it on Europa and even Mars.†While the concept is promising, the team still needs to solve challenges like safe landing and durability in extreme conditions. Hemati noted, “It’s a futuristic idea, and while it’s theoretically possible, we need more research to make it a reality.†Jewelry Microscope,Trinocular Digital Microscope,Professional Jewelry Microscopes,Stereo Binocular Jewelry Microscope Ningbo Huaguang Precision Instrument Co., Ltd. , https://www.hgopt.com