Japan Launches Moon Lander "SLIM" and "XRISM"

• 11 Sep 2023

On 7^th September,2023, Japan's Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) successfully launched the Moon lander "SLIM" (Smart Lander for Investigating Moon) and the X-ray spectroscope "XRISM" as part of the Moon Sniper mission.

Key Points

• Launch and Objectives: JAXA launched the Moon Sniper mission, consisting of SLIM and XRISM, marking Japan's third lunar exploration mission. The entire mission carries a budget of $100 million.
• Nicknamed "Moon Sniper": The mission is nicknamed "Moon Sniper," signifying its purpose and precision.
• Soft Landing Attempt: SLIM will attempt a soft landing on the Moon, with the goal of becoming the fifth country to achieve a lunar soft landing.
• Technology Demonstration: SLIM is designed to demonstrate accurate landing techniques, reduce the size and weight of equipment for lunar landings, and test technology for low-gravity environments.
• Scientific Investigation: SLIM will investigate the Moon's origins and contribute to the study of the Moon and other planets using a lighter exploration system.
• Collaboration with ESA and NASA: JAXA developed XRISM in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA. ESA provided hardware and scientific advice.
• Observing Energetic Events: XRISM will observe energetic events and objects in the universe to unravel mysteries such as the evolution of the universe and the structure of spacetime.
• Navigation Accuracy Study: The Moon Sniper mission aims to determine the navigation accuracy required for future solar science exploration.