15 Years in Orbit: The Spacecraft That Carried Hatsune Miku Fans’ Messages Completes Its Journey

A Japanese spacecraft that carried over 13,000 messages and drawings from Hatsune Miku fans has officially finished its mission after 15 years. Japan’s Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) announced the end of the Venus Climate Orbiter, also known as Akatsuki, on September 18.

The probe lost contact in April 2024. An issue with its control systems caused communication to drop. While JAXA made efforts to restore contact, they ultimately decided to close the mission since the spacecraft had surpassed its intended lifespan.

In a statement on X, JAXA expressed gratitude to supporters who followed Akatsuki through its long journey.

Launched from the Tanegashima Space Center on May 21, 2010, Akatsuki was Japan’s first planetary orbiter. JAXA invited the public to send their messages to Venus, which led to Vocaloid fans organizing a campaign to “send Miku to space.” They contributed thousands of drawings and notes of Hatsune Miku, which were etched onto aluminum plates attached to the spacecraft.

Akatsuki faced challenges early on. It suffered an engine failure right after launch and drifted in space for five years before engineers successfully redirected it using a backup thruster. Finally, it entered Venus’s orbit in December 2015 and spent more than eight years studying the planet’s atmosphere.

The mission provided key insights into planetary science. Akatsuki discovered the largest stationary gravity waves in the Solar System and enhanced our understanding of Venus’s super-rotation. Notably, it also used Earth-style data techniques on another planet for the first time.

According to a recent survey by JAXA, over 70% of the public reported feeling a personal connection to the mission, showcasing how public engagement can enhance scientific exploration.

In related news, Hatsune Miku is making waves once again by partnering with Pokémon for their first crossover concert, proving that the beloved virtual character continues to capture hearts both on Earth and beyond.



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