A model of ispace Inc.'s lunar lander was displayed in Tokyo, hinting at the upcoming second moon landing mission. The company, under the leadership of Takeshi Hakamada, plans to launch the "Hakuto-R Mission 2" as early as December, following a setback in their first moon landing attempt in April 2023, which failed due to an altitude miscalculation. Hakamada expressed his excitement about the upcoming mission during a press conference, highlighting the progress and determination of ispace in reaching the moon successfully.
Founded in 2010, ispace has expanded to employ around 300 individuals in Japan, the United States, and Luxembourg. The Japanese startup aims to replicate the success of U.S.-based Intuitive Machines, which achieved the world's first private moon landing earlier in the year. With the moon becoming a focal point for countries seeking resources like water and fuel to support human life, various national missions including those from India, Japan, and China have landed on the lunar surface in recent times.
The moon has become an emerging frontier in the global space race, with the United States planning its first astronaut lunar landing in over fifty years as part of the Artemis program scheduled for 2026. As countries and private companies set their sights on lunar exploration, the competition to unlock the moon's resources and possibilities intensifies, driving innovation and advancements in space technology.