Japan spacecraft en route to moon of Mars
Japan has launched the Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) spacecraft, which is currently en route to Mars's moon Phobos. The mission aims to retrieve surface samples to provide insights into the origins of the Solar System and support future human exploration.
Why it matters
This mission represents a significant advancement in space exploration and international scientific collaboration, potentially shifting our understanding of the Martian system.
A Japanese spacecraft is on its way to one of Mars's moons on a world-first mission to retrieve samples, potentially helping unlock the origins of the Solar System and life on Earth.
The flagship H3 rocket carrying the unmanned Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) probe blasted off from the Tanegashima Space Center at 4.41am (8.41pm Irish time) yesterday, according to a live stream broadcast by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.
Over an hour later, JAXA announced via the live broadcast that the probe had successfully separated from the H3 and was "beginning its journey toward the Martian system".
"I'd dreamt of this day, so I'm incredibly happy," said JAXA scientist Mari Aida, adding: "Right now, I feel really relieved."
Following the separation, JAXA said it received signals from the spacecraft as expected, confirming it was operating normally.
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Japan Launches Historic Spacecraft on Journey to Mars Moons
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