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Today in History: JAXA's Akatsuki Successfully Enters Venus Orbit

12/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 7, 2015, Japan's Akatsuki space probe successfully entered orbit around Venus, five years after its initial launch attempt failed. Operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Akatsuki aims to study Venus's dense atmosphere, which is primarily composed of carbon dioxide and nitrogen, providing insights into the planet's climate and surface conditions.

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Story summary

On December 7, 2015, Japan's Akatsuki space probe successfully entered orbit around Venus, five years after its initial launch attempt failed. Operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Akatsuki aims to study Venus's dense atmosphere, which is primarily composed of carbon dioxide and nitrogen, providing insights into the planet's climate and surface conditions.