KAGUYA Science Mission Status
- Paper number
IAC-08.A3.2.A3
- Author
Prof. Susumu Sasaki, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan
- Coauthor
Prof. Manabu Kato, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan
- Coauthor
Mr. Yoshisada Takizawa, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan
- Year
2008
- Abstract
The Moon-orbiting KAGUYA (SELENE: Selenological and Engineering Explorer) was injected into the Lunar orbit on Oct.4 2007. It started science mission operation in mid-December. KAGUYA carries the instruments for scientific investigation, including mapping of lunar topography and surface composition, measurement of the gravity and magnetic fields, and observation of lunar and solar-terrestrial plasma environment. The element abundances are measured by x-ray and gamma-ray spectrometers. Alpha ray spectrometer is used to detect the radiation from the radon and polonium gas ejected by the crustal activity. The mineralogical characterization is performed by a multiband-spectrum imager at a high spatial resolution. The mineralogical composition is identified by a spectral profiler, a continuous spectral analyzer in visible and near infrared bands. The surface topographic data are obtained by high resolution stereo cameras and a laser altimeter. The subsurface structure is probed by the radar sounder experiment. Doppler tracking of the orbiter via the relay sub-satellite when the orbiter is in the far side is conducted to study the gravimetry and geodesy. A magnetometer and electron detectors provide data on the lunar surface magnetic field. Radio sources on the two sub-satellites are used to make the differential VLBI observation from ground stations. In addition to the study of the origin and evolution of the Moon, measurement of the lunar environment and observation of the solar-terrestrial plasma environment are conducted. The study of the lunar environment includes the measurement of high energy particles, electromagnetic field, and plasma. For the solar-terrestrial plasma observation, imaging instruments observe the dynamic structure of the earth plasma environment and the auroral activities. High-sensitivity wave receivers detect the planetary radiation from the Jupiter and Saturn. For publicity and educational purposes, high-resolution TV cameras are used to observe the Earth and the Moon surface. This paper presents the major results from scientific observation obtained until September 2008 and the observation plan for the rest of the mission.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-08.A3.2.A3.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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