The U.S. Department of State has announced an immersive exhibit dedicated to space exploration within the USA Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka. The exhibit is designed to showcase American achievements in space, featuring unique artifacts, prototypes, and a lunar sample, known as a "moon rock."
The lunar sample displayed holds historical significance as it was collected by NASA astronaut Harrison Schmitt during the Apollo 17 mission in December 1972, marking the last time humans walked on the Moon. This basalt sample, identified as Lunar sample 70035,41, weighs 118 grams and is part of a 5,765-gram original rock. Estimated to be 3.7 billion years old, it is older than most rocks found on Earth.
As NASA’s Artemis missions aim to establish a long-term presence on the Moon and plan future human missions to Mars, the exhibit provides insight into future space exploration endeavors. The USA Pavilion will host models, including a 10-foot tall SLS Rocket, a scale model of the James Webb Space Telescope, and a model of the Olympus 3D printer from ICON, used in creating the lunar landing base for Artemis.
The ongoing U.S.-Japan partnership in space exploration is highlighted as a significant aspect of the exhibition. Japan, a key ally of the United States, is set to contribute a pressurized rover and components for the Gateway lunar station. Japan is also a signatory to the Artemis Accords, which establish principles for the use and exploration of outer space.
Expo 2025 Osaka, opening on April 13, 2025, represents another instance of the U.S. participating in World Expos. These events provide opportunities to display American innovation and leadership to a global audience. Over its six-month duration, the expo is expected to attract millions of visitors. The USA Pavilion will feature various themes including exchanges, travel, innovation, and a focus on space exploration.
For media-related questions, contact media@usapavilion.us.