Japan’s Martian Moon eXploration (MMX)
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has a neat mission planned for later this decade called Martian Moon eXploration, or MMX. The probe will visit the two Martian moons, Phobos and Deimos, to test new technologies and investigate these enigmatic celestial bodies. Excitingly, the probe will attempt to collect surface samples from Phobos and then return to Earth in 2029 with its precious cargo. JAXA says MMX will “help improve technology for future planet and satellite exploration,” such as tech needed for round-trips to Mars. There’s also some important science involved, as MMX will seek to clarify the origin of the two Martian moons.
