At the 12th Global Space Exploration (GLEX 2025) summit, Kazuyoshi Kawasaki of Japan’s Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) shared exciting updates on Japan’s ambitious lunar exploration plans. These include the Chandrayaan 5/LUPEX mission in partnership with India and a pressurized lunar rover that could operate for more than 10 years. The collaboration with international space agencies like NASA and ESA, along with the development of a lunar base by 2040, marks a new era in Japan’s lunar endeavors.
Japan’s Lunar Exploration Vision
During the GLEX 2025 summit, JAXA’s Deputy General Director for Human Spaceflight, Kazuyoshi Kawasaki, discussed Japan’s growing role in lunar exploration. Kawasaki outlined Japan’s strategic partnerships and upcoming missions, with the goal of setting up a sustainable human presence on the Moon.
JAXA’s involvement in lunar exploration is not new. In January of the previous year, Japan successfully demonstrated its precision landing capabilities with the SLIM mission, also known as “Moon Sniper.” This milestone paved the way for further ambitions on the Moon, including Japan’s collaboration with India on the Chandrayaan 5/LUPEX mission, set for launch between 2028 and 2029.
Chandrayaan 5/LUPEX Mission
The Chandrayaan 5/LUPEX mission is a significant step in deepening international cooperation in space exploration. Under this mission, JAXA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will join forces to land on the Moon’s surface. Kawasaki confirmed that JAXA will contribute the HII rocket and the LUPEX rover, while ISRO will provide the lander.
The cooperation with ISRO is crucial. JAXA is providing the rover, while ISRO is offering the lander. Together, both agencies aim to explore the lunar south pole and lay the groundwork for future lunar habitats. This partnership will also see the involvement of other global space agencies, including NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA), with various payloads planned for the mission. The collaboration strengthens the international community’s resolve to explore and utilize the Moon for scientific research and future human habitation.
A Vision for Lunar Exploration by 2040
One of JAXA’s primary goals is to establish a permanent human presence on the Moon by 2040. Kawasaki emphasized that Japan plans to develop not just scientific and exploratory technology but also the infrastructure necessary to support a sustainable human settlement.
JAXA’s development of a pressurized lunar rover is central to these plans. The rover, which can operate with humans for over ten years, will be vital for exploring the Moon’s harsh environment, especially the lunar south pole, which is rich in water ice. This rover will aid in surveying the area and conducting long-term scientific missions, all while ensuring the safety and well-being of its crew.
Japan’s pressurized lunar rover is a significant leap in technology, as it will enable astronauts to stay on the Moon for extended periods, something that has not been possible before. This rover will be essential for future Moon bases and the exploration of lunar resources, such as water ice, which could support future human life.
Lunar Base Plans: Japan, India, and Beyond
Looking further ahead, Kawasaki outlined JAXA’s vision for a Moon base by 2040, which aligns with similar goals by India. ISRO also aims to land an Indian astronaut on the Moon by 2040, ahead of plans to set up a Moon base by 2047. The Moon base will serve as a hub for scientific research, technology testing, and potentially as a stepping stone for further exploration of Mars and beyond.
The collaboration between JAXA and ISRO, along with contributions from other international partners, will be instrumental in realizing this ambitious vision. Both countries are keen on fostering a multi-national effort to establish a sustainable presence on the Moon.
JAXA’s Long-Term Goals for Space Exploration
Japan’s space ambitions are not limited to the Moon. Kawasaki highlighted that JAXA is also focusing on Mars exploration and the development of technologies that will make long-duration space travel feasible. As part of this broader strategy, JAXA’s partnerships with NASA, ESA, and other space agencies will be crucial in sharing knowledge, resources, and expertise to ensure the success of these missions.
