Japan probe on its way to Mars moon
Japan has successfully launched its Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) probe aboard the H3 rocket from the Tanegashima Space Center, embarking on a world-first mission to retrieve samples from Mars's moon Phobos. The probe, which separated successfully, is expected to arrive near Mars around August next year and will collect at least 10 grams of material during its three-year mission. A French-German rover named IDEFIX will also be deployed to conduct surface observations.
Why it matters
This mission represents a significant step in space exploration, potentially providing invaluable data about the formation of our solar system and the conditions necessary for life, advancing humanity's understanding of the cosmos.
Science & Tech: Japan probe on its way to Mars moon
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The flagship H3 rocket carrying the unmanned Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) probe blasted off into a pitch black sky from the Tanegashima Space Center at 4:41 am (1941 GMT Monday), according to a live stream broadcast by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.
People watch the launch of the H3 rocket, carrying the Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) spacecraft, at the Tanegashima Space Centre in Kagoshima Prefecture on October 20, 2026. (AFP)
TOKYO - A Japanese spacecraft was on its way to one of Mars's moons on Tuesday on a world-first mission to retrieve samples, potentially helping unlock the origins of the Solar System and life on Earth.
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Japan Launches Historic Spacecraft on Journey to Mars Moons
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