Bruce Murray Space Image Library

Luna 20 lander on the Moon

Luna 20 lander on the Moon
Luna 20 lander on the Moon The Luna 20 descent stage has been sitting on the lunar highlands since its landing on February 21, 1972. On February 22, 1972, a sample return capsule launched from this spot, carrying 55 grams of lunar soil back to Earth. NASA / GSFC / Arizona State University
Zoom onto Luna 20
Zoom onto Luna 20 This Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera image of the Luna 20 lander has been enlarged from its original resolution. To the right of the dark shadow of the lander, the shadow extends into a dark hand -- the raised sampling arm, apparently waving back at the orbiter.Image: NASA / GSFC / Arizona State University