Planetary explorations and space resources

Planetary explorations and scientific research for utilizations of extraterrestrial materials

We are participating in space exploration mission programs, such as the Hayabusa-2 asteroid mission, MMX (Mars Moons eXploration) Mars sample-return mission, and SELENE-R lunar rover mission. Our particular interests in surface environments of extraterrestrial bodies, specifically Mars, the Moon, asteroids, comets, and satellites. Mainly geological studies and mission-related instrument developments including GPR (ground-penetrating radar) and optical cameras.

Planetary Geology, numerical simulations, and machine learning for space resource researches

Space exploration projects of various space agencies successfully accumulate a significant amount of exploration data, where we study through classic planetary geological approach, numerical simulations, and machine learning to deepen our understanding of the surface conditions of extraterrestrial bodies. Such studies would contribute to figuring out when and how we shall use some of these more than 3 million objects existing in the solar system with inexhaustible resources and energy.

Space outreach activities

We are involved in the outreach program, which initiated the TeNQ space museum in the amusement park, Tokyo-dome, near the university campus. We consider this activity has significant importance to share the exciting findings in the space science/missions with the greater public, which is necessary to proceed with further space programs.

Message

We are in the most exciting time in the history of planetary science because of the increasing number of new exploration missions to the Moon, Mars, asteroids, and more! Scientific consideration based on the results of explorations and observations is essential to consider which part of the objects to explore and how to use them. Now, what should we do on the moon and the planets - join us to think about the real challenge that humans should take!