Japan launches mission to return samples from Mars moon Phobos
One Turn followed this story across 4 editions, from JAXA, Japan on October 17, 2026. Newest first.
Japan previously returned samples from asteroids with its Hayabusa missions. The origin of Phobos and Deimos, whether captured asteroids or debris from an impact, is debated.
JAXA's H3 rocket launched the Martian Moons eXploration probe from Tanegashima Space Center, beginning a mission to collect at least 10 grams of material from Phobos. It would be the first attempt to land on a Martian moon, with samples due back on Earth in 2031.
Why it matters: Samples from Phobos could help scientists understand the origins of the solar system and of Mars's moons.
Japan launched a five-year mission aiming to land on Mars's moon Phobos, the first attempt to land on a Martian moon, and return about 10g of material to Earth.
Why it matters: Samples could shed light on the origins of the solar system and life on Earth.
Japan's space agency will lead a five-year mission to collect samples from Phobos, one of Mars's two small moons, the first such attempt. Scientists hope it will reveal how Phobos and Deimos formed.
Why it matters: Returning samples from the Martian system would be a milestone for planetary science.