China's first lunar rover now 'back from the dead'

China's first lunar rover has started functioning again just a day after officials declared it was broken beyond repair, according to reports.

It was reported on Thursday that the Yutu (Jade Rabbit) spacecraft had "awoken" from its dormant state, with a spokesman saying that the rover "stands a chance of being saved," the Verge reported

The Jade Rabbit first malfunctioned in January, just as it was supposed to enter a two-week dormancy period.

At the time, it was feared that the rover did not properly close its solar panels, leaving itself vulnerable to the moon's frigid temperatures.

Prospects looked grim but the craft suddenly came back to life and began picking up signals, though there are lingering mechanical issues and its fate remains uncertain.