Japan's Ispace is all set to annex moon by 2040; ready for second spacecraft launch in Q4 of 2024
Japan’s lunar technology firm, Ispace, is gearing up for its second lunar landing attempt in the fourth quarter of 2024, approximately two years after its initial mission faced setbacks, as revealed by company executives on Thursday.
Ispace encountered a setback in April with the unsuccessful Hakuto-R Mission 1 lander, marking a hindrance to the company’s aspirations in the commercial space sector. The loss of communication during the final approach suggested a probable hard landing.
Undeterred by the setback, Ispace demonstrates resilience by naming their second lander “Resilience.” During a press conference, CEO Takeshi Hakamada explained that the choice of name symbolizes the company’s determination and ability to overcome challenges, “being strong and being able to bounce back, the quality of moving straight forward without defeat.”
The compact micro-rover, weighing around 5 kilograms and measuring 26 centimeters in height, will be outfitted with a high-definition camera to capture images of the lunar surface. Additionally, it will be equipped with a shovel for the collection of lunar rocks. Ispace’s objective is to actively participate in NASA’s Artemis program, which is dedicated to the return of astronauts to the moon.
Ispace visions
Established in 2010, Ispace has a visionary goal of establishing a lunar settlement by the year 2040. The company’s revenue-generation strategy involves transporting goods and equipment to the moon. The upcoming second mission positions Ispace in direct competition with other companies like Intuitive Machines Inc. and Astrobotic Technology Inc., all striving to achieve the milestone of the first commercial lunar landing.
The forthcoming Mission 2 aims to address these challenges through enhancements such as software validation, an extended landing simulation range, and increased field testing of radar sensors to improve mission accuracy.
