China's lunar rover Yutu ("Jade Rabbit" in English) is experiencing a technical difficulty on the moon's surface and its future is uncertain as of now.
According to Xinhua News, Yutu's mechanical control system is not responding correctly due to a "complicated lunar surface environment." The announcement comes from China's State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense (SASTIND) Sunday, as repair work is already underway.
In December, China performed the first soft landing on the moon's surface since 1976 with the Yutu rover and Chang'e-3 lander. The mission has become widely popular on China's social media networks and the most recent development has inspired many to encourage Yutu in its recovery.
"You have done a great job Yutu," wrote a user named "Amaniandlove". "You have endured extreme hot and cold temperatures and shown us what we have never seen. Hope you get well soon, but no matter what, it is your presence that makes the planet about 390 thousand kilometers away dazzling."
Zhang Yian, a writer from Beijing, said Yutu represents more than just a lunar rover to the Chinese people. It is a symbol of hope for the country's space industry and a marvel for citizens to admire.
"This is too heavy a burden," he told Xinhua News. "If the rabbit can not stand again, maybe we should let it have a rest."
According to BBC News, the malfunction is the first public mishap China has experienced in a rapidly progressing space program. The Chinese space agency had previously experienced several successful test flights.
Yang Yuguang, a China Aerospace Science & Industry Corp. researcher told Xinhua News the malfunction is not unexpected, but acknowledged the mission at hand is the most difficult the country has ever tried.
"There is no smooth way ahead," said Yang. "Whether or not we can overcome this difficult situation, it's a big lesson for our lunar exploration research."
