Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.( MHI) launched the H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 47 (H-IIA F47) which carried XRISM and SLIM aboard at 8:42:11 am, September 7, 2023. Credit: MHI
The X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM), and the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM), were introduced onboard the H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 47 (H-IIA F47) at 8:42:11 am on September 7, 2023 (Japan Standard Time, JST) from the Tanegashima Space Center.
The launch vehicle flew as planned, and it was verified that XRISM was successfully separated from the launch automobile at about 14 minutes and 9 seconds after launch and SLIM at about 47 minutes and 33 seconds after launch.
The X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) and the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) are substantial objectives from the Japanese area agency.
The XRISM mission is centered on studying X-ray emissions from celestial things. The name, XRISM, which stands for X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission, underscores its dual focus on both imaging and spectroscopy.
As the name recommends, the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon intends to check out the Moons surface. SLIMs main objective is to show precision landing abilities on the Moon.
X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) in space conceptual Illustration. Credit: JAXA
XRISM
The XRISM mission is focused on studying X-ray emissions from celestial items. Its main objective is to much better comprehend the structure and evolution of the universe by observing X-rays emanating from huge phenomena like great voids, neutron stars, and galaxy clusters. The name, XRISM, which represents X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission, highlights its double concentrate on both imaging and spectroscopy.
XRISM aims to deliver groundbreaking insights in numerous clinical domains, including the evolution of the universes most extensive structures, the behavior of matter under intense gravitational forces, the spin of black holes, the inner architecture of neutron stars, and the intricate physics of particle jets.
SLIM (Smart Lander for Investigating Moon) aims to demonstrate “landing where it is desired to land,” pin-point landing strategy and barrier detection technique. Credit: JAXA
SLIM
As the name recommends, the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon intends to explore the Moons surface. SLIMs main objective is to demonstrate precision landing capabilities on the Moon.
The mission includes advanced guidance, navigation, and control technologies. These technologies assist the lander make real-time choices throughout its descent, enabling it to prevent challenges like stones and craters.
SLIMs desired landing site is around the Procellarum KREEP Terrane region on the Moon. This area is of particular clinical interest due to the presence of specific types of lunar rocks that can offer insights into the Moons early volcanic activity and its general geological history.
SLIM is reasonably compact compared to some other lunar landers, highlighting JAXAs emphasis on “wise” and effective style. Its smaller footprint can also be a model for future small-scale lunar expedition missions.