Space Topics: Kaguya (SELENE)
Mission Objectives
During its first year of lunar obit, Kaguya will gather
scientific data to:
- Learn more specifically about the origin and the evolution of the Moon
- Develop technology for future lunar explorations
- Consider the possible future utilizations of the Moon
More accurately, the missions are divided into three categories:
- Science of the Moon attempts to answer the
controversial question of the origin of the Moon by gathering information
on the global characterization of the lunar surface and detailed gravimetry.
This part of the mission will provide detailed data on element abundance,
mineral assemblage, surface topography, subsurface structure, magnetic
and gravity fields, and precession.
-
Science on the Moon will provide valuable information
about the lunar environment and ultimately will aid in future human activity
on the Moon. This includes investigation of energetic particles, electromagnetic
field, and plasma around the Moon.
- Science from the Moon will observe and investigate
other planets in the solar system including Earth, Jupiter, and Saturn.
We will be able to better understand Earth's dynamics of terrestrial
plasmasphere with SELENE's imaging of Earth's radiation between
extreme ultraviolet to visible wavelengths. The topographic information
of the polar region will aid in the possible construction of the astronomical
observatory on the lunar surface. The high-sensitivity wave receivers will
also detect planetary radiation from Jupiter and Saturn.
Kaguya and its two subsatellites are expected to last about one year. However,
if enough power remains, the orbit may be lowered to 40-70 kilometers
(25-40 miles) to gather more detailed data about the Moon.
Profile of the Kaguya mission
After launching from Earth, Kaguya will transfer to an elliptical lunar orbit.
As its orbit is shrunk through successive maneuvers, it will release the
relay satellite and then the VRAD satellite at 2,400 and 800 kilometers (1,500
and 500 miles), respectively, before settling in to an operational orbit
at 100 kilometers (60 miles) altitude. Credit: JAXA
|
|
[ what is this? ]