Successful Launch of H-IIA F47 Rocket Carrying XRISM and SLIM Missions
September 7, 2023 at 8:42 Japanese time, the Japanese space agency
achieved a successful launch of the H-IIA F47 launch vehicle from the
Cosmodrome Tanegasima. This launch marks an important milestone for two
key missions: XRISM (X-ray Image Spectroscopy Mission) and SLIM (Smart
Landing Module for Studying the Moon).
XRISM’s main objective is to study X-ray radiation emitted by celestial
objects such as black holes, neutron stars, and galaxy clusters. The
mission’s name stresses its focus on image and spectroscopy. XRISM is
expected to deliver groundbreaking results in various scientific fields,
including the study of cosmic structure evolution, matter behavior under
strong gravitational forces, and the internal composition of neutron
stars.
SLIM: A New Frontier in Lunar Exploration
SLIM, the Smart Landing Module for Studying the Moon, aims to explore the
lunar surface with exceptional accuracy. Unlike previous missions with
broader landing zones, SLIM is designed for precise landings. Utilizing
advanced navigation and control technologies, the module can make
real-time decisions during descent, enabling it to navigate around
obstacles such as rocks and craters.
The targeted landing area for SLIM is the Procellarum Kreep Terrane region
on the moon. This location holds great scientific significance due to the
presence of specific lunar rocks that offer insights into the moon’s early
volcanic activity and geological history.