Japan Launches X-Ray Satellite and Lunar Lander to Space
X-Ray Satellite to Study the Cosmos
Japan has launched an X-ray satellite called the X-Ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) into space. XRISM is equipped with two instruments for detecting X-rays, which are a form of electromagnetic radiation with high energy. The satellite will orbit Earth from 350 miles above the planet’s surface and observe the velocity and chemical makeup of hot plasma between stars and galaxies in unprecedented detail.
Plasma is an ultra-hot form of matter composed of charged particles that makes up the vast majority of the visible universe. It holds information on the history of the abundance of elements formed by stars and supernovae explosions. By studying plasma, scientists hope to gain a better understanding of the composition and evolution of stars, galaxies, and clusters of galaxies.
XRISM’s instruments include a spectrometer that will operate at a temperature just above absolute zero, allowing it to observe changes in temperature resulting from individual X-rays hitting the detector. The spectrometer will be able to measure the temperature, composition, and speed of the source of the radiation with a resolution 30 times better than NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.
XRISM also has an X-ray imager that will take images with a wide view. The satellite will calibrate once it reaches orbit and is expected to operate for three years.
Lunar Lander to Demonstrate Precise Landing Capabilities
Along with the X-ray satellite, Japan also launched a lunar lander called the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM). SLIM will take a fuel-efficient path to the lunar surface and arrive at the moon in three to four months. It will then enter into lunar orbit for a month before descending to the surface.
The primary goal of the SLIM mission is to demonstrate its highly precise landing capabilities. While lunar landers typically have an accuracy ranging from several to tens of kilometers when landing, SLIM aims to land within 100 meters of its target.
More precise landing capabilities will allow spacecraft to land more safely and enable them to explore areas that were previously inaccessible. SLIM’s destination is the impact crater Shioli, just south of the Apollo 11 landing site.
Japan’s Lunar Ambitions
If SLIM lands successfully, Japan would become the fifth country to successfully touch down on the moon’s surface, joining the United States, Russia (formerly the USSR), China, and India. The mission is part of Japan’s broader plans to send astronauts to the moon in the future.
Significance of the Mission
The launch of XRISM and SLIM is a significant step forward in space exploration. XRISM will provide scientists with new insights into the universe, while SLIM will demonstrate the feasibility of precise lunar landings. These missions will contribute to our understanding of the cosmos and pave the way for future human exploration of the moon and beyond.