RISE : Research In SElenodesy

National Astronomical Observatory (NAO) promotes RISE (Research In Selenodesy) project, which is a part of SELENE project, to investigate lunar gravity field and topography. The selenodesy, an application of geodetic technique to the Moon, will provide important constraints on physical property of the lunar interior, which enable us to investigate lunar origin and evolution. The scientific data from RISE include the first direct measurement of lunar gravity field in the far-side, tracking data of satellites with differential VLBI, and truly global topographic map of the Moon. Three mission instruments of laser altimeter, relay satellite, and VLBI radio source (VLBI satellite) are now under development in cooperation with NASDA, ISAS, and universities. We are also developing a data analysis software with NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center.

SELENE Project

SELENE, the first ISAS/NASDA joint lunar program, will be launched by HII-A rocket in 2004. NAO also joins this project. The major objectives of the mission are to obtain scientific data of the lunar origin and evolution, and to develop the technology for the lunar exploration. SELENE consists of an orbiter on the polar orbit at 100 km altitude, a relay satellite and a VLBI satellite. 14 instruments on board will collect various scientific data during one-year mission period.