Japan

Chandrayaan-2 mission: Japan's SLIM mission lands on the Moon with ISRO help

Photo Credit: ISRO

ISRO's Chandrayaan-2 mission has become a cornerstone for global space exploration. Its impact is evident in Japan's Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM), which recently achieved a successful lunar landing.

Photo Credit: @ISAS_JAXA_EN

Japan leveraged Chandrayaan-2 mission's capabilities to gather crucial imagery, aiding in the selection of SLIM's lunar landing spot. This collaboration highlights international cooperation in space exploration.

Photo Credit: ISRO

While the Chandrayaan-2 mission faced challenges in landing on the Moon, its orbiter remained operational, providing vital data on lunar topography, mineralogy, and the search for water ice.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

The Chandrayaan-2 orbiter, weighing 3850 kg, has surpassed its predecessor, Chandrayaan-1, by orbiting the moon and conducting detailed studies on its various aspects.

Photo Credit: JAXA

Chandrayaan-2 mission's technological advancements and experiences laid the foundation for future missions, including the joint India-Japan LUPEX mission, deepening the collaboration between ISRO and JAXA.

Photo Credit: JAXA

LUPEX Mission: The upcoming LUPEX mission is a testament to the growing partnership between ISRO and JAXA. Chandrayaan-2 mission's influence extends beyond its initial mission, shaping the future of lunar exploration.

Photo Credit: @ISAS_JAXA_EN

SLIM, the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon, entered lunar orbit on December 25, showcasing advancements in landing accuracy with a precision target of 100 meters.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Despite a successful lunar landing, SLIM faced unexpected challenges. Latest imagery reveals the lander tipped over, blocking its solar panels and hindering solar power generation.

Photo Credit: @JAXA_en

Due to the unforeseen tipping, SLIM relies on its limited battery reserves, which are depleting rapidly. 

Photo Credit: @JAXA_en

The Japanese space agency is assessing the situation and expects to determine precision landing success in the coming months.

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