Japanese Moon Surface Exploration Mission

Paper number

IAC-14,A3,2B,7,x23395

Author

Prof. Tatsuaki Hashimoto, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan

Coauthor

Mr. Takeshi Hoshino, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan

Coauthor

Prof. Satoshi Tanaka, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan

Coauthor

Dr. Hisashi Otake, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan

Coauthor

Dr. Hitoshi Morimoto, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan

Coauthor

Dr. Masatsugu Otsuki, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan

Coauthor

Ms. Sachiko Wakabayashi, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan

Coauthor

Mr. Koichi Masuda, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan

Year

2014

Abstract

JAXA launched Kaguya (SELENE) moon orbiter in September, 2007 and the spacecraft was successfully put into moon orbit in October. It observed moon surface and gravity field with 13 instruments and a couple of small satellites till the hard landing in June, 2009. As the next step of moon exploration, a lunar lander SELENE-2 has been considered. It lands on the moon surface and performs in-situ scientific observation, environment investigation, and research for future lunar utilization including human activity. At the same time, it demonstrates some key technologies for lunar and planetary exploration such as precise and safe landing, surface mobility (rover) and overnight staying. Landing site candidates of SELENE-2 are in near side, low or middle latitude area. They are selected from the view point of lunar science. That is, solving mysteries on the origin and evolution of moon-earth system. The lander carries laser altimeters, image sensors, landing radars for precise and safe landing. Landing legs and precisely-controlled propulsion system are also developed. The rover is designed so as to travel in wide area and observe featured terrain with scientific instruments. Some instruments require long term observation on the moon surface. We are developing survival technologies for two weeks night without radio-isotope energy. As scientific instruments, multi-band cameras, a microscopic camera with a grinding tool, and a very broad-band seismometer, etc. are considered. For future lunar exploration, measurement of radiation, regolith dust, and soil mechanics are also planned. 
The mission definition of SELENE-2 has completed in 2007 and Phase-A study has been continuing from then. Because of the shortage of the government budget, however, development plan of SELENE-2 is delayed. JAXA also consider a polar region exploration with international collaboration.  Polar region is another interesting target of planetary science. Volatile material under the surface will reveal the history of the solar system.
As the next step of the landing mission, sample and return from far side are also studied. Far side area like South Pole Aitken basin is very interesting for lunar science, because mantle material can be obtained there. The first landing mission should consider the technological continuity and expandability.
In this presentation, present study the status of Japanese moon landing mission is shown.

Abstract document

IAC-14,A3,2B,7,x23395.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-14,A3,2B,7,x23395.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.