NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter sent back the first images since reaching the moon on June 23 from its two cameras, collectively known as the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera (LROC), which are run by Arizona State University.
LROC PI Mark Robinson from ASU said "Because of the deep shadowing, subtle topography is exaggerated, suggesting a craggy and inhospitable surface. In reality, the area is similar to the region where the Apollo 16 astronauts safely explored in 1972. While these are magnificent in their own right, the main message is that LROC is nearly ready to begin its mission."
[right, cratered regions near the moon's Mare Nubium region. Credit, NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center/Arizona State University]