lander
n. countable C2 Proficiency US //ˈɫændɝ// UK //lˈændɐ// lan·der
n. a spacecraft designed to reach the surface of a planet or moon and stay there. Unlike a rover, it usually stays in one spot to collect data.
n. a spacecraft designed to descend toward and come to rest on the surface of a celestial body. Typically distinguished from an orbiter or a rover by its stationary mission profile upon arrival.
The lander sent back clear photos of the rocky surface.
Engineers lost contact with the lander shortly after it entered the thin Martian atmosphere.
The mission's success depended on the lander's ability to deploy its scientific instruments autonomously in the extreme cold of the lunar south pole.
Usage
Often used in compound nouns such as 'lunar lander' or 'Mars lander'.