On this day in space! Sept. 13, 2007: Japan launches Kaguya spacecraft to the moon to map the lunar surface in HD
On September 13, 2007, Japan launched the Kaguya (SELENE) spacecraft to conduct high-definition mapping and gravitational studies of the moon. The mission, which concluded with a planned crash landing, marked a significant milestone in Japanese lunar exploration.
Why it matters
The Kaguya mission provided critical data for lunar science and demonstrated Japan's growing capabilities in deep-space exploration.
Kaguya, named after a moon princess, captured the first-ever HD video and images of the moon.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's how it works .
Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter On Sept. 13, 2007, Japan launched the Kaguya spacecraft on a mission to the moon. Formally known as SELENE, which is short for SELenological and ENgineering Explorer, it was Japan's second moon mission.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in