I’m studying the movement of the Martian atmosphere and the dust that floats through its atmosphere. Unlike seasonal patterns on Earth, Mars exhibits its unique atmospheric cycles. Among them, I focus on the phenomenon of “dust storms”, which can sometimes grow large enough to cover the entire planet. The physical processes driving such extreme events are still not well understood. To research the Martian meteorological phenomena, I use observational data from an infrared spectrometer onboard a European orbiter circling Mars. By analyzing this data, I estimate how much dust is present in the atmosphere and at what altitudes. I’m also focusing on the surface pressure, that is a key factor in understanding atmospheric dynamics, just as it is on Earth. Even with only limited information from such a distant planet, we can still study its environment from Earth. That’s the interesting point of this research that we can get information about a faraway world from Earth.

It was the movie ARMAGEDDON that sparked my interest in space. It started with the movie “Armageddon”. I adored the NASA scientists and engineers who remained on Earth, working behind the scenes to support the mission. I was inspired by their strength and technical expertise by their ability to contribute to something greater from the ground. That was my gateway into the world of space. Later, in graduate school, I started to research focused on Mars and am currently studying the Martian atmosphere and its dynamic environment. Orbiters launched tens of millions of kilometers away from Earth deliver precious data about the Martian atmosphere and surface conditions. Analyzing this data allows us to know the Martian environment. I’ll be the person who supports space exploration from Earth.

“And yet, for the first time in the history of the planet, a species has the technology to prevent its extinction.” This is a sentence from the President’s speech in the movie Armageddon, and it left a lasting impression on me. It spoke to a moment when humanity, for the first time, dared to shape its future through technology and determination. To me, this quote represents the heart of space exploration: the belief that even the biggest challenges can be overcome when we have the will and the tools to face them.
In the planetary exploration in which I’m involved, researchers around the world are cooperating and bringing together their wisdom and technology in understanding the unknown. I collaborate not only with research institutions in Japan but also with scientists across France and other European countries. These cross-cultural experiences not only broaden the scope of my research but also my worldview. I believe that a simple desire to “I want to try it” will give you the strength to overcome any obstacle. I hope you will experience “I want to try it” dive into the many worlds at your own pace, one step at a time!