Toei plans to make film about Japan's Hayabusa unmanned space probe

by Chris MaGee

We're used to films based on manga, anime series, hit TV shows and even the occasional chart-topping song... but an unmanned space probe? That's a little different, but that is exactly what the folks at Toei are planning.

According to a post over at Tokyograph production execs at Toei are prepping a feature film based around the the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Hayabusa space probe (above). The Hayabusa, which translates to "peregrine falcon" was launched on 9 May 2003, it's mission to travel to Asteroid 25143 Itokawa which orbits between Earth and Mars and take samples and then return to Earth. It accomplished its mission and returned to Earth this past June.

The working title for the film is "Shouwakusei Tansaki Hayabusa: Harukanaru Kikan" and before you start asking how a film about an unmanned space probe could be that interesting you'll be relieved to know that the plot will center around the ground crew of the mission, their job to bring the Hayabusa home safely and the impact on their families. Film is set to begin shooting in May and released in Japan sometime next year.