Kangaroo-themed name for NASA’s Aussie rover revealed, set for 2026 Moon landing

The name of Australia’s first lunar rover can be revealed after more than 20,000 votes were cast to name the vehicle set to land on the Moon in 2026.

After more than 8,000 different names were submitted, the name of Australia’s first rover has been voted Roo-ver — a tribute to the iconic kangaroo.

Four names were shortlisted, but the animal-themed tag won the top gong as part of the Australian Space Agency competition, succeeding Coolamon, Kakirra and Mateship with 35 per cent of the votes.

The rover — which is set to collect lunar soil from the Moon — is expected to land on the Moon as early as 2026 as part of NASA’s Moon to Mars initiative.

American scientists are hoping to extract oxygen from the lunar soil collected by Roo-ver, which will be partially operated from Earth.

Sam Kerr, Steve Irwin and Red Dog were also among the names tossed around in the voting pool.

It is due to weigh about 20kg and is forecast to be around the same size as a small suitcase.

In a video posted to YouTube, which shows a simulation of the rover in action, the Australian Space Agency said people had the opportunity to “be a part of history” when casting their vote.

“Australia, we’re going to the Moon,” the caption reads.