lander

[lan-der]

noun

1. a space probe designed to land on a planet or other solid celestial body.

lander

/ ˈlændə /

noun

1. a spacecraft designed to land on a planet or other body Compare orbiter

Word History and Origins

Origin of lander¹

First recorded in 1960–65; land + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Both Blue Origin and SpaceX have submitted bids to build the lunar lander that will return astronauts to the moon, a project that was initially awarded to SpaceX.

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In March, the company became the first to launch a commercial lander upright and intact on the moon’s surface.

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The research also demonstrated that thermal readings can help estimate the thickness of Enceladus' ice shell, an important factor for planning future missions that may attempt to explore its ocean using robotic probes or landers.

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SpaceX defended its progress developing a lander that will put Americans back on the moon, following remarks by NASA’s administrator that the agency will reopen the program to other bidders.

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SpaceX must first demonstrate it can refuel the lander in Earth orbit in a complicated procedure after takeoff so it can carry out its lunar mission.

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