Japanese billionaire Maezawa cancels Moon trip

A statement on the website of the "dearMoon" project, funded by Japanese billionaire Maezawa Yusaku, has provided an update on the status of the private lunar mission.

The mission, which was previously announced to take place by the end of 2023 but whose fate had remained unknown until now, was reported to have become "infeasible."

The statement said, "Arrangements were being made with SpaceX to launch by the end of 2023. Unfortunately, a launch in 2023 was not possible."

It was noted that Maezawa made the decision to cancel with great regret, stating, "We sincerely thank everyone who supported the project and looked forward to this endeavor, and we apologize for the outcome."

No details were shared regarding the reason for the project's cancellation.

In an announcement in December 2022, Maezawa had stated that famous figures from the worlds of art, film, and sports from various countries would participate in the trip.

The Japanese billionaire had announced that he would cover the costs of the trip, which was expected to be carried out in 2023 using a rocket from the American spacecraft manufacturer SpaceX.

The 48-year-old entrepreneur and billionaire collector Maezawa earned the title of the "first Japanese civilian to visit the International Space Station (ISS)" with his trip in 2021.

Maezawa, who was previously a "punk rock" drummer, is known for having founded the record sales company "Start Today" before entering the fashion world.

News Source: AA