You had thought you would be going home in the lander, but it's the only craft available that can travel in space and thus send the staff into the sun. Place the staff into the lander and watch as it flies off into space. Now your only way back to earth is the portal that King Albert mentioned that is on the dark side. A path to the dark side opens up. Make sure you have supplies and equipment (including some meatballs, but don't use them yet!) and head there now.
