Smart Lander for Investigating Moon

Japan is set to join the elite group of countries that have successfully landed on the Moon. The Smart Lander for Investigating the Moon (SLIM), developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), is scheduled to touch the lunar surface on January 20, 2024. This mission marks an important milestone in Japan's space exploration efforts and provides a unique opportunity to advance lunar science.

Slim: a technological marvel

Mission Overview

Launching on September 6, 2023, on an H-IIA rocket, SLIM represents a significant leap forward in lunar exploration technology. The goal of the mission is to demonstrate highly precise landings, a capability that will enhance the science value of future lunar missions. The lander is aimed at the rim of Xioli Crater, where it aims to land within 100 meters of its aiming point, a level of precision unprecedented in lunar exploration.

Innovative landing technology

Dubbed the "Moon Sniper" because of its exceptional accuracy, SLIM uses an optical navigation system that matches on-board camera images with preloaded lunar maps. This system allows the spacecraft to navigate autonomously to its precise landing location, a significant advancement over large conventional landing ellipses.

Scientific payload

LEV-1 will fly around the lunar surface, while LEV-2, a sphere slightly smaller than a tennis ball, will hover over the area to capture images. Additionally, the lander is equipped with scientific instruments to study the surrounding area.
Purpose and importance

Discovery of lunar cover

It is believed that SLIM's landing site near Shioli Crater will expose the Moon's mantle, providing a unique opportunity to study the Moon and Earth's origins. SLIM's success could provide important information about lunar history and the potential presence of water resources, which is important for future lunar bases.

Reviving Japan's space program

After previous setbacks in lunar missions and rocket failures, a successful SLIM landing would not only restore Japan's fortunes in space exploration but also demonstrate its advanced technological capabilities in the growing field of international lunar exploration.

Challenges and prospects

With a single attempted landing pressure, the precision of SLIM's technique is critical. The success of the mission will be a significant achievement in Japan's space program and will contribute to global lunar exploration and potential commercialization efforts.