SELENE:
SELENE (SELenological and ENgineering Explorer) is an ambitious lunar
exploration mission to be conducted by Japan's two major space agencies. This is the first cooperative Moon exploration effort by the
Institute of Space and
Astronautical Science (ISAS) and the
National Space
Development Agency (NASDA).
The mission aims to map the
Moon's surface and study lunar
origins and evolution. It will also demonstrate new technologies that should
further Moon exploration.
The orbiter will deploy a separate relay satellite that will transmit data to
measure the gravitational field of the Moon's farside.
After a year of mapping,
the orbiter's propulsion unit will separate and land on the Moon. In addition to
showcasing Japan's landing technology, It will send a signal from the lunar surface
to provide another reference point.
Visit the SELENE Website
