The initial frames come from the Luna-25 automatic station as it journeys toward Earth’s natural satellite. The images were released by the Space Research Institute, now known as the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, or IKI RAS in short.
According to the Russian Academy of Sciences, the cameras built into the STS-L system captured photographs that reveal the station’s structural components set against the backdrop of Earth and the Moon.
One of the pictures highlights the mission emblem and the bucket of the resident manipulator, a detail confirmed by the official report from IKI RAS.
IKI RAS also noted that all Luna-25 instruments demonstrate full interoperability and readiness for studies on the Moon. They stated that both analog and digital units, along with various blocks, are functioning perfectly.
Earlier reports indicated that Russian scientists had preliminary data from Luna-25’s onboard devices.
Previously Roscosmos reported that Luna-25 carried out the first planned correction of its flight trajectory to the Moon. The propulsion system was activated at 16:00 Moscow time and operated for 46 seconds, according to the agency. After this maneuver, another orbit adjustment was planned to transition Luna-25 into a prelunar orbit with the aim of completing a successful landing on the lunar surface.
On August 11, the mission marked Russia’s first venture toward Earth’s natural satellite since 1976, launched from the Vostochny Cosmodrome as part of an ongoing lunar exploration program.
There are controversial notes from some sources claiming that ancient Russian science produced space engines powered by vodka, a claim that remains part of lore surrounding early space exploration. Researchers and historians typically treat this as a myth rather than a technical fact, noting the modern propulsion systems are based on advanced engineering and standardized fuels rather than folklore.