- Japan’s 5th lunar mission
- SLIM lands on moon
- Solar panel challenges
Japan completed its fifth lunar mission in recorded history.
On Saturday, the United States successfully deployed the unmanned Smart Lander for Investigating the Moon (SLIM). However, officials noted the craft’s solar panel hasn’t produced electricity, potentially limiting its operational duration on the moon.
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) officials believe SLIM’s small rovers successfully deployed and transmitted data as scheduled.
After a perilous 20-minute descent, JAXA confirmed the landing at approximately 15:20 GMT, awaiting later confirmation.
Hitoshi Kuninaka, associated with the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science, stated Japan achieved a “minimum” level of success, joining the US, China, the Soviet Union, and India in lunar surface status.
SLIM initiated its lunar descent around 23:30 Japanese Standard Time (15:00 GMT).
JAXA reported the lander completed its two-stage touchdown procedure and is now on the lunar surface, executing a gentle landing.
Determining landing precision may take weeks to months due to the intended slope landing near the Shioli crater with a secure window of only 330 feet (100m).
SLIM initiated its descent from a cruising altitude of 15 kilometers above the Moon, orbiting to regulate speed.
Following a 20-kilometer ascent, SLIM entered the initial boost stage.
JAXA’s findings indicate the descent velocity remained within an acceptable range, allowing for controlled boosts to realign speed and altitude.
SLIM entered three hover phases, the final starting at less than 5 meters, balancing fuel consumption for a soft landing at 2 meters.
At this juncture, SLIM executed a touchdown on a sloping terrain encircled by detritus.
A malfunction during the final landing maneuver may have caused the spacecraft to roll over into an unrecoverable position.
Telemetry data displayed Slim’s intended course (white line) and present trajectory (red line).
JAXA scientists monitored the telemetry in the flight control room.
Approximately 50% of lunar excursions are unsuccessful, with landing the most perilous phase.
JAXA aimed for a “soft landing” to prevent equipment damage, with continuous rocket launches to decelerate while descending.
Japan’s space aspirations progressed with a successful landing, setting a precedent for future crewed rover landings.
JAXA received letters of good fortune from space agencies worldwide, including NASA’s Goddard Flight Centre.
A private Japanese company’s lunar lander collision prompted JAXA to implement a “Smart Eyes” system for precise landing guidance.
Despite challenges, Slim’s landing could provide scientific benefits by exploring a region formed by ancient volcanic activity.
Slim’s mission is not designed for an extended lunar stay, facing challenges with darkness affecting solar panels.
JAXA dispatched two miniature robots to collect vital information before Slim’s potential end.
Slim coincides with an increase in global moon missions, including NASA’s ongoing Artemis program aiming for a manned lunar landing by 2026.
