With reference to the MMX mission, consider the following statements: 1. The Idefix rover is a French-German rover designed to land on Phobos. 2. The mission is led by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). 3. The mission aims to deliver samples from Phobos to Australia in 2025. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Japan launches $578 million MMX mission to land rover and lander on Phobos

GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Space technology (ISRO, missions)· Prelims· 20 October 2026

Space exploration and international cooperation: a relevant GS3 Science & Technology topic.

Why in news

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) launched the $578 million MMX mission to land a rover and lander on Mars' moon, Phobos, in a collaborative effort with NASA and European agencies.

Background

The MMX (Martian Moons Exploration) mission involves a 5-ton spacecraft launched from Tanegashima Island. It aims to deliver samples of dust, soil, and rocks from Phobos to Australia in 2031 to study moon formation.

Facts for Prelims

S&TMMX: Martian Moons Exploration mission led by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
FactMMX mission cost: $578 million
PlaceTanegashima Island: Japan's main spaceport for the MMX launch
S&TIdefix: The name of the French-German rover designed to land on Phobos
FactPhobos: A lumpy, potato-shaped rock approximately 22 kilometers (14 miles) across

Prelims practice question

With reference to the MMX mission, consider the following statements:

The Idefix rover is a French-German rover designed to land on Phobos.
The mission is led by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
The mission aims to deliver samples from Phobos to Australia in 2025.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a)1 only
(b)3 only
(c)1 and 2 only
(d)1, 2 and 3

Show answer

Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only — Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: The note states samples will be delivered in 2031.

For Mains

Q. Discuss the significance of international space cooperation in advancing planetary exploration and sample return missions.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

Multilateral synergy: Pooling resources and expertise between JAXA, NASA, and ESA to mitigate high-risk mission costs
Scientific objective: Analyzing Martian moon composition to decode early solar system formation and moon evolution

Keywords: Space Exploration · Planetary Science · Sample Return · International Cooperation · Martian Moons

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