LUNAR POLAR EXPLORATION
MISSION (LUPEX) - SCI & TECH
News: Mission with India to search
for water on moon is on track, launch in few years — Japan space agency
What's in the news?
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According to a recent interview with the Japan
Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the collaborative moon mission between
India and Japan, known as the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX), is
expected to launch in the coming years.
Lunar Polar Exploration
Mission (LUPEX):
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LUPEX is a collaborative effort between ISRO and the Japan Aerospace
Exploration Agency (JAXA).
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The mission is slated for launch in 2025 and will be carried out using Japan's H3 rocket.
Objective:
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To explore the moon's southern polar region to
investigate the presence of water and other elements, potentially in the form
of surface ice.
Aim:
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To demonstrate innovative surface exploration
technologies, particularly focusing on vehicular transport and survival during
lunar nights.
Features:
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The mission comprises both a lander and a rover, with JAXA handling the development and
operation of the rover, while ISRO is responsible for the lander.
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The rover will autonomously traverse the lunar
surface to search for water-rich areas
and collect soil samples using a
drill.
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Data will be gathered by analyzing the collected
samples with onboard observation equipment.
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The mission is also equipped with instruments for
measuring water content, drilling, sampling, and advanced driving systems and
batteries, the rover will feature world-first and world-leading technologies.
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The rover will also carry instruments from ISRO,
JAXA, NASA, and the European Space Agency (ESA).