As part of the program lunar exploration program led by the United States, Japan is likely to send its first astronaut to the Moon. This is reported by UNN with reference to the Kyodo news agency.
Details
The publication writes citing sources that Washington and Tokyo are discussing the landing of the first Japanese astronaut on the lunar surface. The United States is developing the "Artemis" program, which provides for sending American astronauts to the lunar surface for the first time in more than half a century. It is noted, that a Japanese astronaut could be one of the next to land on the the Earth's satellite.
According to the news agency, the two countries are also discussing the possibility of sending a second Japanese astronaut to the moon and are expected to finalize a the plan next month.
In addition to returning people to the Moon and further lunar exploration, the ultimate goal of the "Artemis program is to explore Mars.
Context
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris said on Wednesday that an international astronaut could accompany American astronauts to the lunar surface by 2029. She did not specify, which country the astronaut could represent.
Prime Minister of Japan Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida confirmed on Friday at a meeting of the Strategic Space Development Strategic Staff meeting that the two countries are accelerating negotiations.
Japan will be responsible for the transportation of materials, as well as for the development of the lunar rover, that can be operated without a spacesuit. It will also participate in the construction of the of the Gateway lunar outpost required for the "Artemis program.
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