Study status of Japanese Moon Lander SELENE-2 in 2012

Paper number

IAC-12,A3,2B,1,x15039

Author

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

Year

2012

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 or 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 is 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 and overnight staying. 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 15-days-long night without radio-isotope energy.
The mission definition of SELENE-2 has completed in 2007 and Phase-A study has been continuing from then. Form August 2009 to July 2010, Japanese government has been discussed on nation’s lunar exploration strategy and summarized in a report.  The report said that the first lander should land on near side of moon surface in around 2015. Because of the shortage of the government budget, however, development plan of SELENE-2 is delayed. Presently, some key technologies are studied as so-called “front-loading development”.
In this presentation, mission definition and preliminary spacecraft design, and present study status of SELENE-2 are shown.

Abstract document

IAC-12,A3,2B,1,x15039.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-12,A3,2B,1,x15039.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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