Japan’s Venus Climate Orbiter, Akatsuki, launched on May 21, 2010, faced challenges with its initial mission. After a failed orbital insertion, it successfully began its work in 2015. Since then, Akatsuki has continuously studied Venus. However, contact was lost in April 2024 due to attitude control issues. On September 18, 2025, Japan’s space agency, JAXA, confirmed that the mission has officially ended after efforts to restore functionality fell short.
Akatsuki carried six instruments, including cameras that observed various light spectra and an oscillator for radio experiments. Its primary mission goals were achieved by April 2018, and engineers believed it could run for additional years, ultimately exceeding its expected lifespan and providing a wealth of scientific information.
The end of Akatsuki marks the conclusion of active missions at Venus. There is now a sense of uncertainty about future explorations. The next possible mission is the Venus Life Finder, set for a 2026 launch. However, an orbiter mission might not launch until 2028, which leaves Venus without a human-made companion for the foreseeable future.
This situation highlights the challenges of space exploration. A recent survey from the American Astronomical Society revealed that nearly two-thirds of scientists believe Venus holds keys to understanding planetary habitability. Yet funding for such explorations remains a topic of ongoing discussion, especially given the success and data from past missions like Akatsuki.
Despite the conclusion of Akatsuki‘s mission, the legacy of its findings may inspire future missions. As we look to the stars, the yearning to understand our cosmic neighbors continues. For now, Venus will have to wait for its next chapter.
