October 15, 2008 Updated
'IBUKI' Chosen as Nickname of the GOSAT
"IBUKI" was selected as the nickname of the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT), which is scheduled to be launched this Japan fiscal year, after 12,683 applications were received from the general public.IBUKI means "breath" or "puff", and as the GOSAT is a satellite to observe carbon dioxide, which is the Earth's puff (breath), the name reflects its mission. It also is hoped that the IBUKI will provide people with "vigor" and a "bright future."
The IBUKI is going to be transported to the Tanegashima Space Center soon for launch preparations.
October 9, 2008 Updated
KAGUYA's high vision Camera captures "Full Earth-rise"
The lunar explorer "KAGUYA" acquired images of "the full earth rise and set" through its onboard high definition camera on September 30 (Japan Standard Time) following its full earth image shooting in April. Full earth images can be taken only twice a year when the Moon, Earth, Sun and KAGUYA perfectly line up.You can also enjoy KAGUYA observation images including movies with detailed explanations at the "KAGUYA Image Gallery" site. Please have a look and register.