Planned for launch in the next two years, the uncrewed mission will gather a surface sample from Phobos, the biggest moon, as well as set up the technology needed for a future crewed return trip between the two planets.
The space agency said candidates, which could include universities or research groups, should upload a 1,000-word pitch that highlights how their expertise could contribute to the Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) program.
The request quietly opened on 8 July but won’t close until 5 August.
“We will review responses to help inform JAXA’s assessment of capability alignment with the MMX mission needs,” the Space Agency said. “JAXA will conduct a comprehensive evaluation based on multiple criteria. We will then organise cooperation between suitable respondents and JAXA.”
The MMX mission, led by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), aims to explore Mars’ two moons, Phobos and Deimos. Scheduled for launch in Japan’s fiscal year (JFY) 2026, the spacecraft will enter Mars orbit in JFY 2027 and return to Earth in JFY 2031, carrying surface material collected from Phobos.
MMX’s primary scientific objective is to investigate the origins of the Martian moons and gain insights into the formation and evolution of the Martian system. The mission also aims to contribute to understanding planetary formation across the solar system by studying material transport between its inner and outer regions.
Technological goals include demonstrating round trip flight between Earth and Mars, landing and remaining on a Martian moon, collecting surface samples using advanced techniques, and maintaining communications using Deep Space Network ground stations.
PROMOTED CONTENT
The mission will also use remote sensing to study the moons and Mars. Phobos, in particular, may hold fragments of Martian meteorites, which could provide further data on Mars’ surface composition and geological history. Sampling sites on Phobos will be determined using data from MMX’s on-board instruments, with international scientific consultation.
In collaboration with state broadcaster NHK, MMX will transmit 4K and 8K images using Super Hi-Vision cameras. These are intended to share the mission’s visual data globally.
Phobos is also being assessed as a potential base for future human exploration. MMX will conduct detailed observations of its surface and surroundings to support future missions.
The spacecraft must meet operational and scientific requirements, including maintaining power, thermal balance, and Earth communication, while also achieving necessary observation altitudes and timings.
Adam Thorn
Adam is a journalist who has worked for more than 40 prestigious media brands in the UK and Australia. Since 2005, his varied career has included stints as a reporter, copy editor, feature writer and editor for publications as diverse as Fleet Street newspaper The Sunday Times, fashion bible Jones, media and marketing website Mumbrella as well as lifestyle magazines such as GQ, Woman’s Weekly, Men’s Health and Loaded. He joined Momentum Media in early 2020 and currently writes for Australian Aviation and World of Aviation.
Receive the latest developments and updates on Australia’s space industry direct to your inbox. Subscribe today to Space Connect here.
