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Today in History: Japan launches historic Hiten lunar probe mission

1/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 24, 1990, Japan launched the Hiten spacecraft, marking a significant milestone as the first lunar probe from a nation other than the Soviet Union or the United States. Known as Celestial Maiden, Hiten was part of Japan's MUSES Program and represented a new era in lunar exploration, following decades dominated by Soviet and American missions.

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Story summary

On January 24, 1990, Japan launched the Hiten spacecraft, marking a significant milestone as the first lunar probe from a nation other than the Soviet Union or the United States. Known as Celestial Maiden, Hiten was part of Japan's MUSES Program and represented a new era in lunar exploration, following decades dominated by Soviet and American missions.