Japan Successfully Lands Spacecraft on the Moon, but Faces Solar Power Issue

A Historic Achievement for Japan

Japan has achieved a significant milestone in space exploration by successfully landing a spacecraft on the moon for the first time in its history. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) announced on Friday that its SLIM spacecraft had made a soft landing on the lunar surface. This achievement marks a momentous day for the nation, as it becomes the third country in the 21st century, following China and India, to accomplish this feat. In fact, Japan is now among the five nations that have ever landed on the moon.

A Solar Power Setback

Despite the successful landing, the spacecraft is facing a setback. It is unable to generate solar energy to power its suite of scientific instruments. Instead, it relies on batteries, which are rapidly depleting and only have a few hours of life remaining. JAXA expressed its concern during a press conference, emphasizing the urgency to extract as much data as possible from the spacecraft before the batteries run out.

Extracting Data and Assessing the Situation

While the mission encountered unexpected challenges, it is far from over. JAXA's SLIM spacecraft was originally intended to touch down near the Shioli crater, a small impact crater on the near side of the moon. Equipped with scientific instruments and two rovers, the spacecraft's capabilities may be limited if it cannot generate solar energy. The exact reason for the malfunctioning solar cells is unclear. According to Hitoshi Kuninaka, the head of JAXA's space lab, the cells may be angled incorrectly. However, there is still hope that as the moon continues to move through space, the angle of the sun will change, potentially providing the necessary power to the panels.

JAXA intends to reassess the spacecraft's condition and determine the next steps for the mission. Despite the unforeseen challenges, JAXA considers the landing itself a success. The agency remains committed to gathering valuable data from the lunar surface and understanding the spacecraft's status during descent.

The successful landing of Japan's spacecraft on the moon signifies a significant achievement in space exploration. While the solar power issue presents a challenge, the determination and expertise of JAXA will undoubtedly contribute to further advancements in our understanding of the moon and beyond.

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By: jorwig@businessinsider.com (Jessica Orwig)
Title: Japan Successfully Lands Spacecraft on the Moon, but Faces Solar Power Issue
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/japan-successful-first-moon-landing-slim-spacecraft-mission-2024-1
Published Date: Fri, 19 Jan 2024 19:44:55 +0000