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JAXA Martian Moons eXploration mission

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2026-08-20 22:29 UTC → 2026-08-22 17:17 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is preparing the Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission, which is now scheduled to launch from the Tanegashima Space Center on October 20, 2026, at 4:41 a.m. JST, using a heavy-lift H3-24L rocket. This major international project involves collaboration with NASA, ESA, CNES, and DLR. The unmanned spacecraft aims to study Mars’ two moons, Phobos and Deimos, to resolve scientific debates regarding their origins—specifically whether they resulted from a “giant impact” with Mars or were captured asteroids. The mission involves a three-year orbit around Mars, during which the IDEFIX rover will conduct surface observations on Phobos. A primary objective is to collect at least 10 grams of surface material from Phobos to perform a “world-first sample return from a Martian moon.” Researchers intend to use these samples to understand the transport of water, volatiles, and organic compounds within the Solar System, which may offer insights into how habitable environments formed on worlds like Earth. In addition to sample collection, JAXA intends to investigate the feasibility of using Phobos as a natural space station to support future crewed missions to Mars. A return capsule carrying the collected materials is expected to land in Australia around 2031.

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