The proposed Rapid Apophis Mission for Space Safety (Ramses) would rendezvous with the 375 m asteroid and monitor how Earth's gravity alters its physical state during the flyby. Scientists expect the close passage to provide unique insights into planetary defense strategies.
ESA intends to seek approval for Ramses at its November 2025 Ministerial Council, with a launch targeted for 2028. Preparatory work is already in progress to keep the mission viable ahead of the decision.
JAXA has now formally requested government funding to join Ramses. Planned Japanese contributions include the spacecraft's solar arrays, an infrared imaging system, and the use of an H3 launch vehicle for a rideshare option.
The collaboration builds on the agencies' experience with Hera, ESA's first planetary defense mission currently en route to asteroid Didymos. Both sides have held technical discussions to align contributions and mission design.
"Our experience working with our JAXA colleagues, first on the Hera mission and now on Ramses, has been excellent. We truly feel like one globally integrated team with a common goal," said Paolo Martino, Ramses mission manager. "We would be glad to face the challenge of reaching Apophis together."
"ESA welcomes JAXA's increasing interest in participating in the Ramses mission. International collaboration lies at the heart of planetary defence, and we are very happy to see Europe and Japan continue to strengthen their partnership in this field," said Holger Krag, Head of ESA's Space Safety Programme.
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