The X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) and Intelligent Lander for Exploration of the Moon (SLIM) were launched at 8:42:11 a.m. on September 1 with H-IIA launch vehicle number 47 (H-IIA F47). January 7, 2023 (Japan Standard Time, JST) from Tanegashima Space Center.

The launch vehicle flew as planned and XRISM was confirmed to have successfully separated from the launch vehicle at approximately 14 minutes 9 seconds after launch and SLIM at approximately 47 minutes 33 seconds after launch. The X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) and the Intelligent Lander for Exploring the Moon (SLIM) are important missions of the Japan Space Agency.

XRISM

The XRISM mission is focused on studying the X-ray radiation of celestial objects. Its main purpose is to better understand the structure and evolution of the universe by observing X-rays emitted by astronomical events such as black holes, neutron stars and galaxy clusters. The name XRISM, which stands for X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission, highlights its dual focus on both imaging and spectroscopy.

XRISM aims to provide groundbreaking insights into a variety of scientific fields, including the evolution of the universe’s largest structures, the behavior of matter under the influence of intense gravitational forces, the rotation of black holes, and the internal architecture of neutron stars. and the complex physics of particle jets.

SLIM (Smart Lander for Investigating Moon) aims to demonstrate “landing where you need to land”, precision landing techniques and obstacle detection techniques. Credit: JAXA

As its name suggests, the Intelligent Lander for Lunar Exploration aims to explore the surface of the Moon. The main purpose of SLIM is to demonstrate the possibilities of definitive landing on the Moon. This would be a significant step forward from previous missions that had larger landing zones. Achieving high levels of precision in lunar landings could pave the way for more focused scientific research and the safe deployment of future manned and unmanned landers to areas of interest.

The mission includes advanced guidance, navigation and control technologies. These technologies help it make real-time decisions during descent, allowing it to avoid obstacles such as rocks and craters.

SLIM’s planned landing site is around the Procellarum KREEP Terrane region on the Moon. This area is of particular scientific interest due to the presence of certain types of lunar rocks that may shed light on the early volcanic activity and general geological history of the Moon.

The fact that SLIM is relatively compact compared to some other lunar landers underscores JAXA’s emphasis on “smart” and efficient design. Its smaller size could also be a model for future small lunar exploration missions.