Japan hopes to become the fourth nation to successfully land an unmanned mission to the moon.
The space policy committee of Japan modified the schedule of its space timetable program. It noted 2019 as the launch date for its lander technology to the moon.
The committee said the country's lander is going to be developed with a brand new technology, allowing it to land within 100 meters of the target landing site. In a bid to significantly boost landing precision, the lander will make use of facial recognition software.
The planned trip to the moon is anticipated to be much better compared to what the United States, China or Russia have already launched.
The committee said this specific undertaking of Japan might help strengthen the position of the country in space exploration.
Furthermore, it said that the Japanese government will ask for input from the general public pertaining to its lunar project and space exploration policies. The committee intends to finalize the master plan within the year. The creation of the lander is targeted to kick off in the coming year.
Back in 2013, China followed the footsteps of the United States and the former Soviet Union in completing an unmanned moon mission.
Meanwhile, the landing of the Chinese moon lander, Chang’e-3, in 2013 was regarded as a technological victory.
“It is an achievement deserving of respect,” said John Logsdon, professor emeritus at George Washington University. “Chang’e-3 is impressive as the first landing on the moon in almost four decades, landing in a place that has not been explored (and using) relatively advanced scientific instrumentation.”
Some critics during the time, nevertheless, wondered if the mission was definitely worth the money. A few even made a comment that the unmanned mission could not resolve social issues.
China, however, seemed to win over Scott Pace, the director of the Space Policy Institute at the George Washington University. According to him, the mission showed off the remarkable abilities of the country by pulling off what he calls "soft landing." Soft landing, according to Pace, necessitates skill in guidance, control and navigation.
This technological triumph of China may be a challenge and at the same time an inspiration to Japan by the time 2019 comes around. Knowing Japan's prowess in technology, however, can make the venture's roaring success a piece of cake.
