ESA and JAXA enhance Moon and Mars exploration collaboration

The European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) are enhancing their collaboration in space exploration. They have signed a new statement of intent to work together on missions to the Moon and Mars. This partnership aims to improve scientific understanding and develop technology for sustainable exploration. Both agencies want to inspire future generations and coordinate their research efforts. Their plans include joint studies on lunar operations, particularly involving ESA’s Argonaut lander and JAXA’s rover. The agreement builds on past collaborations, including a 2024 statement about major joint initiatives and a 2023 study on lunar communication. Daniel Neuenschwander from ESA highlighted the importance of this new agreement in exploring the Moon and Mars. For lunar exploration, ESA and JAXA will work on robotic missions and share resources. They will focus on linking ESA’s technology with JAXA’s lunar projects. This includes testing how their systems can work together effectively. When it comes to Mars, the agencies plan to collaborate on vehicles that transport materials. They also intend to work on future missions to collect samples from Deimos, one of Mars' moons, in the 2030s. Next, technical teams from both agencies will define their roles and how to collaborate effectively. They will share data to streamline their efforts. Following this, more formal agreements will be created, subject to approval and funding.