Mission Summary
SELENE (Selenological and Engineering Explorer, a deliberate nod to Selene, the ancient Greek goddess of the Moon) was the most sophisticated lunar orbiter missions since the Apollo era. Developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, the 6,350-pound (2,880 kg) spacecraft consisted of a main orbiter nicknamed Kaguya and two smaller, releaseable sub-satellites designed to map gravity and relay communications from the far side of the Moon.
Scientists loaded the main spacecraft with fifteen distinct geological and structural instruments. Its primary goals were to meticulously chart the chemical composition of the surface, map subsurface crustal layers, and study the faint lunar environment. For the general public, its most famous payload was a pair of custom high-definition television cameras that broadcast stunning, crystal-clear footage of the distant Earth back to ground stations.
Operationally, the mission was a flawless triumph. Kaguya slipped into a stable polar orbit on October 4, 2007, and deployed its twin sub-satellites into independent paths shortly after. The three vehicles successfully collected an unprecedented pool of topographical data, including the first highly detailed gravity maps of the hidden far side. After extending its stay to complete a bonus science phase, the main orbiter concluded its highly successful run by executing a planned, controlled impact near the Gill crater on June 10, 2009.
Sources and notes can be found on the Sources page.
