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Home , Expedition 20, Harmony (ISS module), Koichi Wakata, Satoshi Furukawa

January 2010 No. 01 JAXA TODAY

Midori Nishiura Adviser to JAXA CONTENTS Space:Contributing to 3 Space: Contributing to the future of mankind What do JAXA’s activities aim for? the future of mankind Keiji TACHIKAWA Midori NISHIURA What do JAXA’s activities 8 “Perseverance is the key to the success” of the H-IIB aim for? Mamoru ENDO 11 H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) completed the JAXA has been engaged in a wide range of activities, including the launch of satellites, participation in the 53-day mission. International Space Station (ISS) program, promotion of space science, and R&D in the aviation fi eld. All these Yoshihiko TORANO activities are performed based on a will to contribute to the future of mankind through space activities. 16 Six-person crew is a very important milestone in the ISS program

19 Deepening Mysteries of the Moon Scientifi c Results of Lunar Explorer KAGUYA Manabu KATO

22 KAGUYA returned to the Moon Mission Completed Susumu SASAKI

23 Frequently Asked Questions About JAXA

Keiji TACHIKAWA Midori NISHIURA President of JAXA Advisor to JAXA Public Affairs

JAXA TODAY No. 01 January 2010 Aerospace Exploration Agency

Cover Images Clockwise from above left , Mare Moscoviense on the lunar farside, launch of H-IIB, Koichi Wakata, HTV in preparation for its release from the ISS, President Keiji Tachikawa.

Launch of IBUKI(GOSAT) on January 23, 2008 ©JAXA 2010 All Right Reserved

2 3 Midori Nishiura with JAXA Astronaut, , who is staying in the ISS as a crew member of /23.

Nishiura: May I start by saying that I am thrilled to observe promoted from communications, broadcasting, and weather Governments of countries all over the world can draw remarkable effort on everyone at JAXA. the recent years of JAXA’s space development activities, which observation to positioning satellites often used for car ­appropriate measures using these data. IBUKI’s observation Tachikawa: In addition to observation from the Earth’s orbit, have been successful, and contributed greatly to the future of navigation systems recently. Also, I see that JAXA’s another data will continue to be useful in further advancement of we have also sent space probes to planets, including the Moon, mankind. I must say it makes my job all the more pleasurable. important role is to use the results of observation from space measures to be taken whenever necessary. for on-site exploration. Nozomi (PLANET-C) tried to explore Dr. Tachikawa, perhaps you would like to begin by elaborating for industry through, for example, support for agriculture, Tachikawa: I have mentioned about global warming counter- Mars in the past, and HAYABUSA (MUSES-C) recently arrived on these activities. ­forestry and fishery, and resource exploration. measures above, and the same can be said for problems like at asteroid Itokawa. It is now on the way to the earth with Tachikawa: In JAXA, year 2004 was started with the deliberation climate changes and global circulation of water. We can offer samples collected from Itokawa. KAGUYA went to the Moon of how we could resume the launch of H-IIA launch vehicle, as Nishiura: I also bring to attention the important fact that observation data for these areas, too, and I believe the utiliza- and brought many results. This year saw the launch of a Venus the launch of the vehicle No. 6 failed in November of the previ- JAXA can play a big role in combating global warming, thus tion of these data for policies through careful analysis will be probe called AKATSUKI (PLANET-C). We also plan to launch ous year. Launch was resumed in February 2005. Since then, 10 reducing it. This worldwide problem must be tackled with more important in the future. a probe for Mercury in cooperation with Europe, and are con- vehicles have been successfully launched until last November. and speed in order to secure the survival of mankind. sidering successors of HAYABUSA and KAGUYA. These Advanced Land Observing Satellite DAICHI (ALOS), which Tachikawa: The use of satellites for environmental prob- system explorations are too expensive for countries to work was also very useful for disaster countermeasures, lunar explorer lems, such as greenhouse gases and climate changes, and We can see the universe at all wavelengths on solely. So it is sure that international cooperation will be KAGUYA (SELENE) that observed the moon and took the image disaster countermeasures will increasingly be important in actively pursued. of “earthrise,” and IBUKI (GOSAT) to observe greenhouse gases the future. So, JAXA makes considerable efforts to promote Nishiura: Another purpose of space utilization is to develop are included in them. We have launched not only JAXA’s satellites, the use in these new areas. To cope with environmental prob- the field of space science. Would you enlighten the readers but also the geostationary meteorological satellite Himawari of the lems, we need to research the situations, and observation with JAXA’s activities on astronomy, and solar system explo- The outcome of experiments in space must be Meteorological Agency and information-gathering satellites. I’m from space is one of most effective means for it. For example, ration fields? useful

very happy that all these satellites have achieved excellent results. IBUKI is a satellite to measure CO2 based on the concentra- Tachikawa: I think space science was started by people’s demand tion distribution from space. Previously the measurement to observe celestial bodies in space, or outside of the atmosphere, Nishiura: International cooperation will need to increase, and has been performed at about 280 observation points on the as the atmosphere hinders astronomical observation on the strengthen. Japan can also continue to supply with up to date We offer observation data land, which were hardly set on the ocean. Meanwhile, obser- ground. In space, we can observe the universe at all wavelengths, useful data for the benefit of other nations, enabling all of us vation from space can be performed at 56,000 points all over and X-ray and radio waves are particularly focused in Japan. Five in the world for new challenges, and research. It is important Nishiura: It was exciting to watch the actual launch at the world, improving the accuracy of measurement greatly X-ray astronomical satellites have been launched in the last 30 to accumulate such data, and experiences, so that they can be Tanegashima Space Center, and the experience made me aware compared to the conventional one. IBUKI was launched last years, producing many scientific outcomes such as the detection shared globally. We have the good example of the recent HTV of the difficulty involved in launching a satellite. JAXA’s satel- January and the distribution of data started in October. We of black holes. We are now planning the No.6 satellite. I think we project. The mission was a huge success. lites that have been launched over the years are diversified, and expect all countries in the world use these data. have offered advanced contributions with a small budget. Tachikawa: It has been around 11 years since the construction quite essential to our daily lives in many ways. of ISS started. It will be finally completed this year. Then, the Tachikawa: The utilization of satellites has been significantly Nishiura: This is a tremendous contribution to the world. Nishiura: I couldn’t agree with you more. I must say it was a biggest challenge will be how to offer excellent fruits to humans

4 5 The Extent of damage caused Dr. Keiji Tachikawa has been by mountain fire in Australia as the President of JAXA since observed by DAICHI (above). The November 2004, driving for right hand image shows the site further advancement of aerospace before fire (Sept. 15, 2006) and exploration in Japan. the left shows the site after fire (Feb. 10, 2009).

by using this ISS. Since six stay in the ISS, we have We eagerly hope to realize supersonic aircrafts in the future. Nishiura: What cooperative relationship does JAXA have with are essential part of our lives to tackle these problems. It to transport food, water, daily necessities, and experimental But, for Mach 2 level aircrafts, considering the environment is countries in Asia? encourages us to see some nations have deep understand- equipment to them. HTV performs this role. The United States needed, concretely speaking, quietness and measures against Tachikawa: JAXA developed what is called “Sentinel Asia” in ing about this fact, and focus on space as a national policy and Russia have already performed the shipment of supplies sonic boom. Moreover, we have worked on the development the field of disaster measures in 2007 in which 21 countries as well as launching full-scale efforts to advance the space to the ISS. European transfer vehicle succeeded in shipment in of ultra supersonic aircrafts flying at about Mach 5, which in Asia participate. We have so many natural disasters in the projects. Here in Japan, the Basic Space Law was established 2008, and Japan also participates in this mission. can shuttle between Japan and the United States in 2 hours. Asian region, such as typhoons, floods, earthquakes, tsunami, in 2008. and mountain fires. If a disaster occurs, we need to know the Tachikawa: The Basic Plan for Space Policy was made Nishiura: Japan’s experiment module, Kibo is in ISS. We all Nishiura: Wouldn’t it be marvellous? No more jet lags! circumstances as soon as possible. Observations from space based on the Basic Space Law and Japanese space policy to share such high hopes and expectations for it to produce Tachikawa: You would also like to try this airplane, wouldn’t are best suited to this. That’s why we offer a service to use be implemented for the next 5 years was shown. I think it useful data and results. you? But for this, we have to develop an engine for high- DAICHI launched in 2006 to take images of the disaster site is wonderful, because space is highlighted as a theme for Tachikawa: Experiments in the ISS have just started. But, we speed flight. The United States, Europe, and Japan now as soon as possible if required when a disaster occurs. This national strategy. hope to contribute to humans by producing excellent results research this jointly. Mach 5 level supersonic aircrafts may be service has already produced results, offering various data. as soon as possible, because the outcomes of experiments in produced through international cooperation in the future. In this “Sentinel Asia,” not only Japanese DAICHI, but also Nishiura: Japan is blessed with talented professionals, as well space must be useful for human life in future. Indian, Korean, and Thai satellites have participated, allow- as excellent technologies, etc. I believe we have a lot to offer, ing more prompt action to take the images of disaster sites by and contribute to the world, and it’s peace. Cooperation with Asian countries using the closest satellite when the provision of information Tachikawa: I totally agree with you. Japan is now one of the Two-hour flight between Japan and the United is requested. top five countries in terms of space development and has States Nishiura: I emphasize once again the importance of interna- We consider if we can apply this cooperative relationship made economical and global contributions. But, we are also tional cooperation in space field. to the environmental area, too. While we already have IBUKI eager to contribute to space utilization with human resources. Nishiura: Please tell us about JAXA’s research development Tachikawa: Efforts for the ISS have been made through in Japan, we also plan to launch new satellites. India, Korea, JAXA tries to achieve it as a member of the world. of aircrafts. international cooperation, and I think it is really great and China may also launch satellites for similar purposes. If we Tachikawa: JAXA is engaged in R&D for not only space, but for humans. Fortunately, conflicts have never broken out can use these satellites, we will be able to cope with the envi- also aviation. We used to have YS-11, a regional airplane, but between participating countries during these projects. ronmental problems of Asian countries. We aim to build such we have never had aircrafts made in Japan after it. That’s why cooperative relationships in Asia first, and then apply them Midori Nishiura, an Opinion Leader, and President of a consulting various R&D efforts have been made to produce regional Nishiura: That indeed is an immensely important factor. globally. firm, Amadeus Inc., Advisor to JAXA’s Public Affairs, Visiting Professor jets. JAXA also researches the basic part of the develop- World peace achieved through sharing and participating in at Yamaguchi University, amongst many other important roles she fills, ment. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries decided to commercialize space projects are no longer just a dream. has been on the Advisory Board of various major companies, and also Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ) last year, and the past outcome Tachikawa: For example, if considering the future manned Contributing to the future of mankind sits on committees organized by Government Ministries and Agencies. of JAXA’s research was used for this. For MRJ, it is necessary to exploration of the moon, it must be hard for a country to Author of many books as well as articles in leading publications, obtain type approval certificate in Japan, and JAXA will help realize it. So, several countries will have to cooperate. I assume Nishiura: With the increasing number of problems fac- Ms. Nishiura, having had her own interview programmes on television the government’s tasks for this. the same can be said for the manned exploration of Mars. ing the mankind today, space research and development is often called upon to commentate on the news.

6 7 H-IIB launch vehicle moving to the launch pad No.2 of the Tanegashima Space Center “Perseverance is the on September 10, 2009 key to the success” of the H-IIB Launch Vehicle

The H-IIB Launch Vehicle Test Flight (H-IIB TF1) took off at its scheduled time on September 10, 2009 from the Tanegashima Space Center and delivered the H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) Demonstration Flight to the specified orbit. This new launch vehicle with launch performance greatly improved compared with that of the H-IIA is said to be the key to Japanese space transportation. But what kind of philosophy is its design base? And, what kind of potential does it have for the future? Mamoru Endo, one of JAXA’s six chief engineers, who has been engaged in the development and operation of the H-II and H-IIA launch vehicles since the days when he was a member of the former National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), talked about a view into something further away from the success of the H-IIB.

Basic concept: No major change felt relieved to have fulfilled my responsi- My very first experience of witnessing a bility rather than moved by the successful launch of the H-IIA Launch Vehicle at launch. Also, I was overwhelmed by deep the launch site was immediately after I emotion and satisfaction to see that we we strategically verified some technologi- which included the development costs mented, “Even though we can use quite stepped down from the position of the had finally reached the level of discussing cal issues through the H-IIA 204 type to of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), a few already established technologies, H-IIA project manager. It was a launch manned space transportation. smoothly step up from H-IIA to H-IIB. In we were able to complete the develop- don’t we still have to build a new system?” of the H-IIA Flight 12, and I can still viv- A “space transportation system” is a that sense, the H-IIA 204 type was a very ment of H-IIB with the total amount or “You can’t achieve the development in idly recall my strong impression of the service to prepare a launch vehicle (trans- important step as it satisfied the require- of about 27 billion yen (19.6 billion yen such a low budget.” Even some of them dynamic liftoff scene. It was awesome! portation means) required by a customer ments of a very heavy payload, “KIKU No.8,” for JAXA and 7.5 billion yen for MHI). explicitly said, “The project should be Unfortunately, I was at the Tokyo office payload (satellite side) and take a payload while realizing “minimum risks and costs.” I think our achievement was more than cancelled.” Their opposition was ratio- watching a live report of the H-IIB launch to its orbit. In order to inject an HTV, The diameter of the H-IIB first stage “incredible.” It should be “unrealistic” (or nal because the “development of a new that time. I thought I would remain calm which is 16.5 tons, to its orbit, we made a is 5.2 meters, which is larger than the even “crazy!”) if you compare it with the launch vehicle” was proposed by a per- and cool for the launch this time, but I new launch vehicle, H-IIB, with minimal H-IIA diameter. It is true that a bigger global launch vehicle development stan- son who was the project manager of the actually found myself shouting, “Good! risks and costs. Accumulated experiences diameter is one of the “unknown fac- dard. Our successful development was launch vehicle that caused a failure. By Well done!” to myself in my mind every and technologies of the H-IIA were fully tors” in view of design. Still, it is not very owing to our “power of continuation” incorporating those candid opinions, we time some major events, such as SRB-A utilized for this purpose. difficult to predict its impact through as we have been persistently striving to have repeatedly studied and verified the separation and first-stage engine cutoff, simulation based on calculation. Some develop H-II, H-IIA, and H-IIB. possibility of a new launch vehicle devel- successfully took place. new technologies such as friction stir opment, and I now believe that such Mamoru ENDO Step-by-step based on We now have a new launch vehicle welding (FSW), which was used for join- careful consideration also contributed to Chief Engineer, Space Transportation Program Systems 204 type Necessity of new challenges Engineering Office joined NASDA (the former National with a new name, H-IIB. It is larger with ing core vehicles and dorm parts, greatly our successful development. Space Development Agency of Japan and the improved launch capability. However, our For example, a solid launch vehicle booster contributed to reducing costs including The H-IIB development project gave its Meanwhile, I also hear some com- JAXA) and worked for projects such as the development basic concept of its development was (SRB-A) for the H-IIB is exactly the same as inspection expenses. An upgraded avionics first cry when JAXA (then NASDA) was ments like, “We’ve already had a launch of the H-II and LE-7 and the concept design of the H-IIA. “no major change.” Engineers who were that for the H-IIA. The core vehicle needed system (an electronic system for guidance busy investigating the cause of the H-IIA vehicle that has enough launch capabil- Focused on the preparation for the operation start of engaged in the H-IIB development must to be strengthened to bear with the power control) can also be applied to the H-IIA Flight 6 launch failure and studying ity, thus we do not need to pursue fur- H-IIA as the deputy manager after the launch failure of have been less interested in it owing to of four SRB-As, but its design strength series. As a result of our tireless efforts, the countermeasures. In other words, at that ther development,” or “Are our develop- the H-II No.8 (1999). Worked to rebuild the H-II family such a concept. However, thanks to the has already been verified by the H-IIA development cost of the H-IIB was much time, we were in one of the worst situa- ment activities not for an achievement as a project manager after the launch failure of the H-IIA No.6 (2003), being involved in the development of the concept, we were able to maintain the Flight 11 (204 type of the H-IIA series) less than that of H-II, which was about tions in our history; thus, even some peo- but for inducing further development?” H-IIB at the same time. Retired from the project man- steady and sound development of H-IIB with the KIKU No. 8 (ETS-VIII: Engineer- 270 billion yen, or that of H-IIA, about ple within our organization opposed the However, as athletes continue their daily ager position after helping on the H-IIA No.11 project from the beginning to the end by minimiz- ing Test Satellite-III) onboard. From the 120 billion yen. Although we exceeded idea of developing a new launch vehicle training to maintain their ability, we also (2006) and was assigned to the current position. ing challenges to new technologies. I now very early stage of the H-IIB development, our original budget of 20 billion yen, under such circumstances. They com- need to update our technological level by

8 9 continuously challenging new things. If transportation. It is true that we have Backdropped by a blue and white part we merely continue our launch activi- acquired a potential, but just having the of Earth, the unpiloted Japanese H-II ties with existing launch vehicles, I can capability and actually carrying human Transfer Vehicle (HTV), filled with clearly predict that they will become beings to space are two completely differ- trash and unneeded items, departs obsolete in the near future. In ten years ent things. In the case of an unmanned from the International Space Station. or so, some manufacturers may stop mission, we can continue the flight of a making a certain component. Therefore, launch vehicle until it reaches an extreme I strongly feel the necessity of always situation even if we detect some abnormal- setting a new goal and investing in it. ity in flight data. Then, if we find that the We have already accumulated a lot mission cannot be achieved, we can send a of knowledge and technology. We have destruct command to terminate the flight enough data in our computers. How- with a loss of vehicle (LOV) or a loss of ever, only human beings can extract and mission (LOM). For a manned mission, fully understand these, and create a new however, things are very different. We may thing . In the case of large systems such have to give up a vehicle or a mission, but as a launch vehicle, we cannot make we have to avoid a loss of the crew (LOC). any progress if we start something from In that sense, the same data abnormality H-IIB TF1 carrying the H-II Transfer scratch every time. Currently, the same has different meanings for a manned and Vehicle (HTV) Demonstration Flight engineers are in charge of maintenance, an unmanned mission; hence, a very criti- launched from the Tanegashima Space operation, and new technical develop- cal decision must be made for a manned Center on September 11, 2009 ment of both H-IIA and H-IIB, and I mission. In the United States and Russia, believe that that is the way it should be. enough data must have been accumulated to make such a grave decision by actually manufacturing hardware and testing it time for repeated tests and data acqui- Safety is determined by “how repeatedly. sition to set up some sort of decision- much we have considered” However, in Japan, if we decide to making criteria. We should come up This launch was successfully achieved, engage in manned space transporta- with a space transportation system that but it does not mean that we have tion, it is not realistic that we follow the does not require a critical judgment, or H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) acquired a space transportation sys- conventional method of the previous that does not induce two or more inci- tem that can be used for manned space century that requires a lot of money and dents that entail critical decisions simul- taneously. It means that, for a manned completed the 53-day mission. mission, we will face challenges that are completely different from improving or renovating the H-IIA or H-IIB, which is The HTV was launched from the Tanegashima Space Center by the H-IIB Launch Vehicle on September 10, Key changes from the H-IIA not designed for a manned mission. Having said the above, I believe that, 2009 and docked with the International Space Station (ISS) on September 17. After being moored to the ISS 204-type launch vehicle technically, Japan’s existing hardware itself for almost one and half months, it was released from the ISS on October 30, 2009 and completed the 53-day is good enough for a manned mission. The point is that reliability and safety depend mission when reentering the atmosphere over New Zealand on November 1, 2009. Larger satellite fairing on how far we consider some issues and To load an HTV, the length was extended This was the first mission for the HTV, a cargo vehicle developed by Japan. What kind of system is the what problems are investigated in depth from 12 to 15 meters with the same diameter. during the design phase. HTV? How was it developed? And, how will it be operated in the future? We asked these questions to I always say, “A launch vehicle pro- vider is like a palanquin carrier.” I Yoshihiko Torano, a project manager controlling the HTV Project. believe that the successful H-IIB launch The diameter of the first-stage this time has enabled us to move a step core vehicle was increased to closer to a safer transportation system 5.2 meters. for men, but we have not achieved yet Transporting everyday goods to house PCs, electronics, propellants, Propellant was increased 1.7-fold to improve the a fully comfortable level of providing a and experiment devices to ISS engines, and others. The former is also launch performance. vehicle that people can safely ride. composed of two sections: the Pressur- As a person who has been work- Q. What kind of a cargo vehicle is ized Carrier in which 1 atmosphere is ing for an unmanned launch vehicle, I the HTV? always kept and the Un-pressurized Car- feel that it is an important task for me Torano: The HTV is to transport every- rier exposed to space to transport goods to provide next-generation engineers day goods, various experiment devices, in a vacuum. The first-stage engine (LE-7A) with the environment where they can and parts used for the maintenance of was clustered. the ISS to the ISS from the ground. The Next pages The HTV Mission Control Two engines were bound together to enhance meet the challenge to provide a vehicle total length is approximately 10 meters, Room in the Tsukuba Space Center. propulsive power and launch performance. in which people can safely ride. Most of all, if we decide to send people into space Yoshihiko TORANO the diameter is 4.4 meters, and the The staff members celebrating the by our own space transportation system, Project Manager mass excluding the cargo is 10.5t. It can success of mission after the HTV HTV Project Team those who will be on board will be JAXA deliver a cargo of 6t or more to the ISS. reentered the atmosphere on Novem- Human Space System and Utilization The HTV is mainly composed of two ber 2, 2009. H-IIA 204-type launch H-IIB launch vehicle astronauts, our fellow engineers. Mission Directorate major sections: space to load cargos and 10 11 12 13 Q. Which points of the HTV are unique? process is designed not to allow to pro- Test Satellite VII Kiku No. 7 (ETS-VII) sometimes start from 4 A.M. or from Torano: First of all, I think the Un- ceed to the next step without receiving “Orihime (Chaser) & Hikoboshi (Tar- evening till due to time difference pressurized Carrier is unique because an approval command from the con- get)” launched in 1997. In fact, the with the United States. the HTV will be the only vehicle that troller on the ground at each key point. outcomes of these experiments were can transport experimental devices and utilized for the HTV. parts to be mounted on outside the ISS Q. Which point was difficult in the devel- Technology leading to the future after the scheduled retirement of Space opment process of the HTV? Q. Where is a command to the HTV manned space system Shuttle in 2010. In addition, the Pres- Torano: The most difficult point was to sent from? surized Carrier is also unique because let the HTV follow the ISS at exactly the Torano: It is sent from the mission con- Q. Do international partners have great it allows the HTV to transport a large- same speed as the ISS flying at a speed of trol room for the HTV in the Tsukuba expectations from the HTV? The HTV is launched by the H-IIB size cargo with its large 1.2-meter-wide 7.7 km a second as if it hovered around Space Center where a 20-member team Torano: At the beginning of the HTV Launch Vehicle. opening on the docking side. the ISS. To achieve this, elaborate cal- The International Space Station’s works on a three-shift system. development, some people may have culations were needed to keep ultra- Canadarm2 grapples the unpiloted said that we did not have to develop Q. How is the HTV docked with the ISS precision, and double and triple systems Japanese H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) Q. You must have trained a lot for the such a transporter because we could after being launched by the H-IIB Launch were used for security purposes. So, we in preparation for its release from the operations of the HTV from the launch, pay money to ask the transportation of Vehicle? had to struggle to conduct too many station. and docking to the ISS to subsequent goods to the or Progress. Torano: The HTV recognizes its own tests with too many items. For example, operations. But, our predecessors kept the devel- position by using the data of GPS for tests between two devices, 2 tests for Q. Had the JAXA experienced rendez- Torano: Yes, I have already done train- opment saying, “No, we do not give it after being separated from the launch each device for the double system and vous and docking in space? ing 100 or more times, including joint up, because the HTV must be needed vehicle’s second stage and reaches the 3 tests for each device for the triple Torano: We had an experiment of the ren- training with the United States I some- for the Japanese space development same altitude as the ISS by the main system were required. dezvous and docking. The Engineering times do it three times a week, and must in the future.” Consequently, the HTV engine fired. Then it moves to the now attracts a lot of attention from the position 5 km from the ISS and con- world, since Space Shuttle will retire The HTV approaching the ISS firms to the controller if it can proceed H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) from service soon. with the next step. If the controller on the ground approves, the HTV will fly Q. What does the HTV mean to the future Main Thruster down to move just under the ISS. Then of Japanese space development? it checks all the functions and awaits Solar Cells Torano: In the Pressurized Carrier of instructions from the controller on the Propulsion Module the HTV, people can breath because 1 ground, hovering at the points of 300 Navigation Light atmosphere is always kept inside. So we m and 30 m from the ISS when moving Avionics Module can turn the HTV into a manned space- up close to the ISS. Finally, it stops at 10 ship by mounting life-supporting equip- m from Harmony module (the node 2) ment. In other words, we can make any Un-pressurized Carrier on the bottom of the ISS, and then the time a system for manned space flights. robotic arm of the ISS grasps the HTV By enhancing the propulsion system a Crew members enter the HTV docked to let it dock with the Harmony. little, we can even go to the Moon. So I to the ISS. believe that the significance of the HTV is not only in the safe transportation of Pressurized Carrier Excellent safety is required to cargo to the ISS, but also in the realiza- dock HTV with the manned ISS tion of manned space flights by Japan.

Q. What did the HTV transport to the Q. Many people may think it costs a ISS in this mission? great deal of money for Japan to achieve Torano: This HTV, the first demonstra- a manned space flight capability, and tion flight, had the HREP, an experi- we have to develop the technology from ment device of NASA, and the SMILES, scratch. But what do you think of it? Japanese experiment equipment Torano: That’s not the case. It may cost (loaded on a special platform called a much, but we do not have to develop ISS Canadarm2 grapples the HTV in exposure pallet) in the Un-pressurized from scratch. preparation for its release from the Carrier, and food, drinking water, and station. everyday goods for astronauts in the Propellant Tank Q. Finally, tell us about your hopes for Pressurized Carrier. It is planned to the future. launch the HTV almost once a year, i.e., Avionics Torano: I believe the HTV is a very 6 more HTVs, in the future. excellent cargo transporter as well as the culmination of the past space devel- Q. Is the unmanned HTV in danger of Exposed Pallet opment of Japan, as the technologies of

clashing into the ISS by mistake when Exposure Payload Earth Sensor rocket, satellites, and manned space sys- approaching the ISS? tem are concentrated in it. My hope or Torano: If it happens, it will be a serious Hatch desire for the future is to use these out- Backdropped by a blue and white part problem, as the ISS is with astronauts Lithium-ion Non-rechargeable Battery comes as a means to develop not only onboard. That’s why very high safety is manned space flight, but also the Moon of Earth, the HTV, filled with trash and Forward RCS Thruster unneeded items, departs from the ISS. required for the HTV and its operating and the other planets.

14 15 Expedition crew. However this time, the returning flight included the mission of final assembly of Kibo modules and my Six-person crew is a very participation, as a JAXA astronaut, was assigned from the beginning. Since I had a huge pile of tasks just before return- ing to the earth, I kept having a sense of important milestone in tension all the way. In the outward flight STS-119, I installed a base segment of solar array panel called S6 truss to the ISS. the ISS program After the for the STS-119 left and the two of crew returned to Earth by TMA-13, Astronaut Koichi Wakata told I conducted various experiments pertain- ing to system operation and maintenance in ISS for two months with cosmonaut and NASA astronaut about the long stay in space. Michael Barratt. We were very busy every day during this period, as it was a flight in space shuttle. At the end of May, three crews newly arrived in Soyuz TMA-15 On July 31, 2009, JAXA astronaut Koichi Wakata, who stayed in the International Space Station (ISS) as a and a six-person team was formed for the first time in ISS. After that, I had a member of the Expeditions 18, 19, and 20 crew, safely returned to Earth aboard space shuttle Endeavour. day off on Sundays and we had some He completed the final assembly of the Japanese Kibo Experiment modules with the crew of STS-127/2JA spare time in life. mission. His stay in space was as long as about 138 days. During his stay in space, the crew size of the ISS Well-lighted, quiet, and Expedition expanded from 3 to 6. comfortable Kibo

Q. You had a big job to complete Kibo modules at the very end of the Expedition. The time flew by quickly Astronaut Koichi How did you feel when you finished it? The six-person crew poses in the Harmony node of the Interna- WAKATA works in Wakata: Seventeen years have passed tional Space Station. Pictured clockwise from right (center) are cosmonaut Q. How did you feel right after returning the Kibo laboratory since I was selected as an astronaut can- Gennady Padalka, commander; astronaut , from the long stay in the International of the International didate, and I have worked with people Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Koichi Wakata, NASA Space Station (ISS)? Space Station. He is who joined the development team of astronaut Michael Barratt, cosmonaut , and European Space Wakata: I felt the gravity and realized a veteran of three “Kibo” and members of operation and Agency astronaut , all flight engineers. that I really came back to the earth. space flights. He control team of JAXA who operate Kibo The time flew by quickly because I was flew as the first from Tsukuba Space Center, Japan. I am busy with my work and in daily life in Japanese Mission very happy to have joined the mission to space. I felt like coming back from one- Specialist on the finish assembling Kibo. During the final week or two-week business trip. Since STS-72 mission in work to move the experimental package Six-person crew as a key before and after the flight. This is one I worked in a special and, in a way, 1996. In 2000, he using Kibo’s robotic arm, I remembered milestone in ISS project of the ongoing collaborative researches demanding environment that was dif- became the first all of those people I have worked with between Japan and the United States, ferent from the life on the earth, the Japanese astronaut and I felt that I was really fortunate to Q. In this long stay in space, you yourself and I believe we could get valuable data four and a half months of stay in space to work on the ISS be involved in Kibo project. became an examinee for an experiment. through this experiment to resolve the was like a dream. assembly on the I believe the outcomes of the experiment reduction of bone density, a physiologi- STS-92 mission. On Q. What did you think of Kibo after you will be important for the future manned cal problem, during a long stay in space. Q. When you were assigned as an Expe- March 15, 2009, Koichi Wakata flew aboard Discovery on the STS-119 mis- actually worked in space? activities. And what is your idea? dition crew, you told us that the flight sion during which the seven-member crew installed the final starboard truss Wakata: I felt strongly that “Kibo” is a Wakata: If a man stays in space over a Q. The first six persons of Expedition crew would be like a marathon after sprint segment S6 to the ISS and performed three space walks. During 4-1/2 months great experimental facility that Japan long period, the density of bone will be were astronauts from the United States, with another sprint at the end, because aboard the ISS, he served as a Flight Engineer and the JAXA Science Officer on could be proud of. The Pressurized Mod- reduced. In this mission, I became the Russia, Europe, Canada, and Japan. What you had shuttle missions in the outward the crew of Expeditions 18, 19, and 20. He became the first Japanese - ule is well-lighted and quiet, making a first examinee among astronauts for did you feel about the life in space with and return trips. How was it actually? naut to serve as a resident ISS crew member. Expedition 20 marked the first comfortable environment. I also felt that testing bisphosphonate, a drug used to people from various countries? Wakata: As I expected, I felt like I was ISS expedition to expand the crew size from 3 to 6 members with representa- the perfection level of ergonomic design control the reduction of bone density. Wakata: Astronauts from five space doing a 100-meter dash every day during tive crew members from all the ISS partner agencies. With the arrival of STS- is very high. I did various tasks including I took this drug, which is normally used agencies participating in the ISS pro- the docking of space shuttle on the way 127, the crew expanded from 6 to 13, the largest ever to live and work aboard life science experiment, material experi- for patients with osteoporosis on Earth, gram gathered in orbit by chance dur- to and from ISS. Usually in the return- the ISS. The seven-member crew of STS-127 completed the final assembly of ment, and art experiment, as well as PR to check its effects on the reduction of ing this Expedition. I think six-person ing shuttle flight, a complicated task the Japanese Kibo modules of the ISS and performed five space walks. Koichi activities and educational/promotional bone density under the microgravity crew is a very important milestone in like assembling of the Japanese Experi- Wakata returned to Earth aboard Endeavour with the crew of STS-127 on activities. I hope that the Kibo’s great environment. As a result, we had posi- the ISS program. International coop- ment Module Kibo is not assigned to an July 31, 2009. capability is used in various ways. tive outcomes of bone density between eration is essential for human beings to

16 17 ISS program. In fact, it is a very chal- lenging endeavor to operate manned facilities in space, a harsh environ- ment, although people may feel it is Deepening Mysteries rather easy after launching the vehicle into space. A wrong operation may lead to fatal damages such as fire and sud- den depressurization. All staff mem- of the Moon bers of the operation control team in Tsukuba handle hard tasks to operate Kibo around the clock in cooperation Scientific Results of with control teams all over the world and astronauts in orbit. In my opinion, manned space activities are an effort of crisis management for human beings to Lunar Explorer KAGUYA survive as “species” in the long view. So I believe it is necessary to utilize new technologies and know-how of opera- The SELenological and ENgineering Explorer KAGUYA (SELENE), Japan’s first large lunar explorer, was tion obtained through the development launched on September 14, 2007, and was controlled to be dropped onto the Moon on June 11, 2009, as The Japanese Experiment Module Kibo laboratory and Exposed Facility are featured and operation of Kibo in the post-ISS in this image photographed by a crew member on the International Space Station. manned space activities of Japan. In its mission was completed. KAGUYA had been using 14 onboard scientific instruments to observe the entire addition, I expect that Japan will fur- ther contribute to the world’s manned surface of the Moon. Although it is still in the data analysis stage, new discoveries have been published in space activities as a leader in technology scientific journals. We interviewed Professor Manabu Kato, Science Manager of SELENE Project, about the by promoting the area of specialty such as robotics. scientific results of KAGUYA.

Q. What is your dream in the future? Wakata: I want to contribute to the suc- cess of the entire ISS program, empha- sizing that I am a Japanese astronaut, by using what I have learned through the training and space-flight missions Magma oceans right after region using a method called cater and widely promote Japan as a nation the Moon’s formation counting; the greater the number and contributing greatly to the world’s density of craters, the older we assume space programs in a variety of areas, Q. Will you tell us about the scientific the region to be. Since the chronology including the ISS, especially in terms of results of KAGUYA? of the nearside of the Moon is already human resources. And, my big dream Kato: First, the Terrain Camera (TC) determined rightly, we analyzed the is to construct a Japanese manned is a high-resolution stereo camera, chronology of the maria, the “ocean” on space-ship that can shuttle between the and a lot of interesting data have been the farside of the Moon. As a result, we ground and low earth orbit in order to already acquired, including 3D flyth- found that the farside had been volcani- allow a lot of astronauts from Japan and rough movie of Tycho Crater. We used cally active until 2.5 billion years ago, the rest of the world to go into space TC data to determine the age of lunar i.e., they may be about 1 billion years The members of the STS-127/2JA ISS Orbit 2 flight control team pose for a group from Tanegashima Space Center in the younger than previously estimated portrait in the space station flight control room in the Mission Control Center at future. because it was thought that the maria NASA’s . had become inactive about 3.5 billion Q. Finally, please offer any comment for years ago. The nearside had been active the readers. until about 1 billion years ago. The fact Wakata: I am very glad to have com- that the farside had been active until 2.5 pleted the mission safely. I could get billion years ago shows that the Moon develop new frontiers. So I believe this our home, seemed to be the most relax- through the long stay in space for four had enough heat source and was not gathering of astronauts from five space ing time. and half months, thanks to support by completely cold until that time. Manabu KATO, “Kaguya” Science agencies in the ISS was an event repre- many people. In addition to me, JAXA Manager, SELENE Project Team, senting the significance of international astronaut Soichi Noguchi started a long Q. Then, is the history of the Moon dif- JAXA Space Exploration Center cooperation. My dream is to allow Japanese stay last December, and astronaut Naoko Japan’s Lunar Explorer KAGUYA with ferent from that was previously thought? to go into space from Yamazaki will board the space shuttle in 14 scientific instruments onboard Kato: It is thought that the lunar surface Global topographic map was Q. What did you do in your free time? Tanegashima March next year. Moreover, astronauts was launched on September 14, was once completely molten right after completed with laser altimeter Wakata: After six-person crew was and 2007. The major objectives of the the Moon’s formation; the so-called formed, I could have time to read Q. What do you think about the manned plan to participate in a 6-month long mission are to understand the Moon’s magma ocean existed. The quantity of Q. How was the result of scientific instru- books, enjoy the beautiful view of the space activities of Japan in the future? stay in the ISS in the near future. Thus origin and evolution, and to observe heat source of the Moon was basically ments used to observe the distribution of earth through an unshuttered window Wakata: For one thing, I think it is an increasing number of Japanese astro- the moon in various ways in order to determined during this period, and it minerals on the lunar surface? of Kibo, and listen to music in my free important to advance the Kibo opera- nauts will play an active role. So I wish utilize it in the future. On June 11, seems that more heat was reserved than Kato: Two instruments are onboard time or holiday. For me, viewing Earth, tion soundly to achieve the success of many people continue to cheer for us. 2009 its mission was completed. previously thought. KAGUYA to observe rocks that comprise

18 19 the surface of the Moon and their min- eral composition. One is a Multi-band Imager (MI) and the other is Spectral Profiler (SP). We observed central peaks of craters with these two instruments. In violent impact that may create a crater of 100 km diameter, the central part of the crater is uplifted due to the gravitational effect. This is the central peak where we can find materials deep underground, because these materials were exposed by the collision. We observed several central peaks and found that the major component was the rock called anortho- site consisting of mineral that was rich Sequential images of the full Earth-rise taken by KAGUYA’s onboard high-definition television (HDTV) on April 6, 2008. in calcium and aluminum. The compo- Images shown here are cut out from the moving images. sition was almost the same everywhere. View of the central peak of Tycho crater acquired by Terrain Camera. Tycho is a This means that the layer of anorthosite large crater 84 km in diameter and 4.6 km deep. This crater is relatively new than average exists. This corresponds to characteristics of the nearside and the We will find the area where the eruption exists underground. This also shows that in lunar history, formed by an impact about 100 million years ago. the magma containing iron oxide. The farside, in other words the dichotomy occurred with further inspection. the existing magma ocean hypothesis area where the gravity is weak consists of of the Moon. On the other hand, the may be somewhat different. lighter rocks only. On the nearside, heavy facts that the composition of the central Q. How was the observation result from materials are distributed on the maria, peaks are the same everywhere and that Lunar Magnetometer (LMAG)? Q. Will you tell us about the laser and we have found that few areas contain the farside of the moon had been active Kato: We found many points with mag- altimeter (LALT)? heavier materials on the farside. More- 1 billion years longer than we previ- netic field remnant near the South Pole Kato: We acquired the topographic data over, multiple-ring structure due to a huge ously thought alleviate the dichotomy. on the farside. However, the lunar mag- over the Moon with LALT, including impact seemed to have remained on the We have found both characteristics. netic field is very weak and only about A the high-latitude region of north and farside without any change. Since we have one nanotesla. I think the materials to south above 85 degrees that has not learned these from the observation of grav- Q. Have you found anything about the sub- preserve the magnetic field are distrib- been measured by an altimeter. Using B ity anomalies, we will find how the subsur- surface structures? uted on craters. this data we made the global topo- face structure was formed and why there Kato: We observed almost the whole area graphic map of the Moon. The highest are such differences. of the Moon with Lunar Rader Sounder and the lowest points were determined (LRS) and we are analyzing the data of Mission to trace the origin correctly. The highest point is located Q. It seems that there is a lot of difference some maria on the nearside. The obser- and the evolution of the Moon on the edge of a crater on the farside, between nearside and farside of the Moon. vational result shows that discontinuous which is 10 km higher than the mean Chronology of Mare Moscoviense on the lunar farside. The Terrain Camera Kato: The gravity anomalies and the plane exists at 500 m below the surface. Q. We heard the data was not acquired radius of the Moon. The lowest point is aboard KAGUYA provides high-resolution images to sufficiently detect small data acquired from LALT I mentioned It shows that the eruption of the magma from Gamma-Ray Spectrometer (GRS) located in the South Pole - Aitken basin craters. As a result of crater counting by TC observation data, several areas of earlier have emphasized the different occured twice when the maria was formed. during a certain period. on the farside, which is 9 km lower than Mare Moscoviense show their younger ages. Area B is 1 billion years younger Kato: Yes. We had a hard time, but we have the mean radius. than area A. Area B had been active until 2.5 billion years ago. got a result. We measured the gamma ray from radioisotope on the surface of the Farside Nearside Moon to check the element distribution. Q. The “permanent sunlight” and “per- Global map was made for uranium and manent shade” on both polar areas were potassium. The density of both elements also observed by LALT. What was the was high in the maria of the nearside. purpose of it? The global map of potassium has been Kato: Because these areas are possible already made, but we made that of ura- locations for future lunar base. The per- nium for the first time. manent shade exists on both areas. The permanent sunlight does not exist, but Q. It seems that very interesting results there is a region where the sun shines have been achieved rapidly and we may 80% of the year. If we set solar cell on need to discuss a new model for the evolu- that region, we can have plenty of elec- tion of the Moon. tricity. Therefore, such a region may be Kato: I think we need to revise the old a candidate site for the lunar base. model quite a lot. With regard to the Gravity anomaly of Apollo basin (left) on the farside and Mare Serenitatis (right) dichotomy of the Moon, the internal Aititude (km) on the nearside. Not only the Apollo basin but many other basins on the farside structure and evolutional process are A global lunar topographic map with a spatial resolution finer than 0.5 degrees Gravity anomalies reveal are characterized by a large negative (blue color) gravity anomaly. Such a signa- very different from the conventional has been derived using data from LALT onboard KAGUYA. In a comparison with the subsurface structure ture of farside gravity is distinguished from that on the nearside. Mare Sereni- ideas. One of the major purposes of the previous Unified Lunar Control Network (ULCN 2005) model, the new map tatis, the representative basin on the nearside, shows a strong positive (red KAGUYA is to trace the origin and evo- reveals unbiased lunar topography for scales finer than a few hundred kilome- Q. Have you acquired the data on the color) gravity anomaly at the center of the basin. The newly found difference of lution of the Moon. Our next step is to ters. The highest point on the Moon (black circle) is on the southern rim of the gravity anomalies? gravity anomaly on the near-side and the far-side gives us clues to important sum up the results from the scientific Dirichlet-Jackson basin, and the lowest one (white circle) is in the Antoniadi Kato: Of course we have. In the area where questions regarding the structure of the lunar interior and the formation of the instruments and define the full picture crater in the South Pole - Aitken basin. the gravity is strong, the materials heavier far-side and near-side of the Moon. of the Moon’s history.

20 21 KAGUYA returned Frequently Asked to the Moon Questions About JAXA

Q:What does JAXA stand for? guidepost showing us the way. The star the scope of relevant laws. In such Mission Completed A: JAXA stands for Japan Aerospace in the JAXA logo represents our wish cases, insertion of credits* is required Exploration Agency. to become a guiding star not only for used texts, drawings, images, mov- On October 1, 2003, an independent for Japanese people but also for all ies, and other materials. In an old Japanese story, “Kaguya” is a princess from the Moon. The name of the Lunar Explorer KAGUYA was administrative institution, the Japan humanity on Earth. Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), *Examples of credits in English taken from the story, and KAGUYA returned to the Moon on June 11, 2009 after completion of the observation was established through the integration “Courtesy of JAXA”, ©JAXA mission for about one and a half years. We interviewed Professor Susumu Sasaki who had been involved in of 1) the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), committed The use of photos or images of the project from the start as a person in charge of observation device and also had led the team as a project to the development of large-size launch specific individuals such as astronauts vehicles such as the H-IIA, satellites and are not available for use to protect the manager since November 2008. the International Space Station; 2) the rights of publicity of that person unless Institute of Space and Astronautical you ask for advance permission from Q. We understand you were involved Space Development Agency of Japan Science (ISAS), devoted to space and JAXA. in the SELENE (KAGUYA) project from (NASDA) shared the project and ISAS planetary research; and 3) the National As for JAXA’s logo, the Japan Aero- the start. worked on the observation devices Aerospace Laboratory (NAL), dedicated space Exploration Agency (JAXA) owns Sasaki: Back in those days before three while NASDA worked on the satellite. to research and the development of Q: How many people work for JAXA? its trademark in Japan and in other organizations merged into JAXA in I joined the project as an organizer of next-generation aerospace technologies. A: JAXA has 1,594 regular staff mem- countries; thus, you are not able to use 2003, the Institute of Space and Astro- ISAS in charge of observation devices. This integration into one group bers as of FY 2009. In addition, many it unless you get advance permission nautical Science (ISAS) and National allows a continuous and systematic domestic and overseas researchers, from JAXA. Q. What do you think of the reason for approach from basic research to practi- graduate students, and people from For the use of materials for the the success of the mission? cal application under one roof. the private sector are also hired. purpose of business or profit-making Sasaki: There are many reasons, and one activities, we strictly prohibit the use of it was a lot of test on Earth. Moreover, Q: What does JAXA do? Frequently Asked Questions About without permission from the copyright although this project was a scientific The staff members celebrating the suc- A: The Japan Aerospace Exploration JAXA’s Public Affairs Services owner (JAXA). If you want to use our mission, persons in charge of satellite for cess of mission just after the controlled Agency (JAXA) performs various activi- materials for such purposes, make sure practical use also participated. Scientists landing of KAGUYA ties related to aerospace as an organization, Q: Do you lend photos or images of to contact us. seek advanced missions, and the value from basic research in the aerospace field to rockets? Please read the site policy and user’s of science depends on the advancement. Q. How do you feel after the completion of development and utilization. A: You can search and view photos and guide prior to use. On the other hand, the satellite for prac- KAGUYA mission? JAXA’s main activities are: images of rocket launches owned by the tical use aims to achieve the given tar- Sasaki: I am content that the opera- • Academic research in space science Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency Among images used on JAXA’s get steadily. Although we had a lot of tion for 21 months was completed through joint research or other collabora- (JAXA) on the JAXA Digital Archives Web site, ones related to an astronaut’s discussions, highly reliable satellite that successfully to the end. I think most tion with universities. Web page. High-resolution data for ­on-orbit activities and training at NASA, yielded scientific output came along as of action items of remote sensing have • Basic research on space science technol- various prints are also available. launches of the Space Shuttle, and oth- a result. I think the way of development been completed. I expect a conclusion ogy, aeronautical science technology, and As for the lending of image software ers related to the Space Shuttle or Inter- Susumu SASAKI of KAGUYA will be useful for the future is made in one or two years about the the development of platform technolo- planned or produced by JAXA, you can national Space Station are owned by Project Manager, SELENE Project Team, JAXA Space planetary exploration missions. origin and the evolution of the Moon. gies for space and aviation. refer to the “lending of image software” NASA. Please use these images owned Exploration Center • Development of satellites and launch page for details and there is some soft- by NASA according to the following vehicles for satellites. ware available to view on the Internet. guidelines from NASA. The final still images • Launch, tracking, and operation of satel- taken by the onboard 1 2 3 lites. Q: May I include JAXA photographs or Q: Where are JAXA’s exhibition sites and high-definition televi- • Propagating JAXA’s achievements. images on my personal Web pages? what do they offer? sion (HDTV) just prior • Sharing JAXA’s facilities and equipment. A: The copyrights (and intellectual A: There are many Japan Aerospace to its maneuvered fall- • Training of researchers and engineers, and property rights) of all texts, drawings, Exploration Agency (JAXA) facili- ing onto the Moon. The enhancing their skills. images, movies, and other materials on ties with exhibition spaces, and some series of continued • Support for university education. the JAXA Web site belong to the Japan science museums have corners for shots was taken with Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) JAXA exhibitions. They offer easy-to- an interval of about Q: What does the JAXA logo symbol- unless otherwise noted. understand explanations on the most one minute while the 4 5 6 ize? JAXA permits the use of JAXA texts, advanced, high technology, such as the KAGUYA was maneu- A: JAXA’s logo symbolizes the letter drawings, images, movies, and other current status of Japanese aerospace vered to decrease its “A” from “Aerospace” in the shape of a materials if the purpose of the use is for research and development, and future altitude toward the star. A star represents “hope,” “pride,” education, public relations, or informa- technology using video, models, and impact position. and “a mind of quest,” and acts as a tion providing, or if the use is within actual equipment.

22 23 JAXA HQs / Field Centers Kakuda Space Center

1 Koganezawa, Kimigaya, Kakuda-shi, Collaboration Base for Taiki Town and JAXA: Miyagi 981-1525 Taiki Aerospace Research Field Phone: +81-224-68-3111 Fax: +81-224-68-2860 In the Taiki Multi-Purpose Aerospace Park 169 Bisei, Taiki-cho, Hiroo-gun, Tsukuba Space Center Hokkaido 089-2115 2-1-1 Sengen, Tsukuba-shi, Phone: +81-1558-9-9013 Fax: +81-1558-9-9015 Ibaraki 305-8505 Noshiro Testing Center Phone: +81-29-868-5000 Fax: +81-29-868-5988 1 Shimonishiyama, Asanai, Noshiro-shi Akita 016-0179 Tokyo O ce Phone: +81-185-52-7123 Marunouchi Kitaguchi Bldg., Fax: +81-185-54-3189 1-6-5 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8260 Earth Observation Center Phone: +81-3-6266-6000 Fax: +81-3-6266-6910 1401 Numanoue, Ohashi, Hatoyama-machi, Hiki-gun, Saitama 350-0393 Otemachi Branch Phone: +81-49-298-1200 5F Dai-ichi Tekko Building, 1-8-2 Marunouchi, Fax: +81-49-296-0217 Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005 Usuda Deep Space Center Phone: +81-50-3362-7838 Fax: +81-3-6259-8740 1831-6 Omagari, Kamiodagiri, Saku-shi, Nagano 384-0306 Headquarters O ce Phone: +81-267-81-1230 Chofu Aerospace Center Fax: +81-267-81-1234 7-44-1 Jindaiji Higashi-machi, Chofu-shi, Nagoya O ce Tokyo 182-8522 Phone: +81-422-40-3000 Fax: +81-422-40-3281 Kanayama Sogo Bldg. 10F, 1-12-14 Kanayama, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, Chofu Aerospace Center Aichi 460-0022 Aerodrome Branch Phone: +81-52-332-3251 Fax: +81-52-339-1280 6-13-1 Osawa, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo 181-0015 Phone: +81-422-40-3000 Fax: +81-422-40-3281 Katsuura Tracking and Communication Station 1-14 Hanatateyama, Haga, Katsuura-shi, Chiba 299-5213 Phone: +81-470-73-0654 Fax: +81-470-70-7001

Uchinoura Space Center Akiruno Research Center Sagamihara Campus

1791-13 Minamikata, Kimotsuki-cho, 1918-1 Sugao, Akiruno-shi, 3-1-1 Yoshinodai, Sagamihara-shi, Kimotsuki-gun, Kagoshima 893-1402 Tokyo 197-0801 Kanagawa 229-8510 Phone: +81-994-31-6978 Phone: +81-42-532-7435 Phone: +81-42-751-3911 Fax: +81-994-67-3811 Fax: +81-42-532-7302 Fax: +81-42-759-8440

Kansai Satellite O ce

Creation Core Higashi Osaka South facility 1F (Room 2103), Ogasawara Downrange Station Tanegashima Space Center 1-4-1, Aramotokita, Higashiosaka-shi, Osaka 577-0011 Mazu, Kukinaga, Minamitane-cho, Phone: +81-6-6744-9706 Fax: +81-6-6744-9708 Kuwanokiyama, Chichijima, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima 891-3793 Ogasawara-mura, Tokyo 100-2101 Phone: +81-997-26-2111 Phone: +81-4998-2-2522 Fax: +81-997-26-9100 Fax: +81-4998-2-2360

Masuda Tracking and Communication Station 1887-1 Masuda, Nakatane-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima 891-3603 Phone: +81-997-27-1990 Fax: +81-997-24-2000

Okinawa Tracking and Communication Station JAXA Houston O ce JAXA Paris O ce 1712 Kinrabaru, Afuso, Onna-son, 100 Cyberonics Blvd., 3 Avenue Hoche, 75008 Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 904-0402 Suite 201 Houston, TX 77058, U.S.A. Paris, France JAXA Liaison O ce Phone: +81-98-967-8211 Phone: +1-281-280-0222 Phone: +33-1-4622-4983 Fax: +81-98-983-3001 Fax: +1-281-486-1024 SSPF M006, Code: JAXA-KSC, Fax: +33-1-4622-4932 JAXA Bangkok O ce Kennedy Space Center, FL 32899, U.S.A. JAXA Washington D.C. O ce B.B.Bldg., Room 1502, Phone: +1-321-867-3879 2120 L St., NW, Suite 205, 54, Asoke Road, Sukhumvit 21, Fax: +1-321-452-9662 Washington, D.C. 20037, U.S.A. Bangkok 10110, Thailand Phone: +1-202-333-6844 Phone: +66-2260-7026 Fax: +1-202-333-6845 Fax: +66-2260-7027

JAXA Web site http://www.jaxa.jp/index_e.html JAXA Latest Information Mail Service Public Affairs Department http://www.jaxa.jp/pr/mail/index_e.html Marunouchi Kitaguchi Bldg.3F, 1-6-5 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8260 Phone: +81-3-6266-6400 Fax: +81-3-6266-6910