Japan’s H3 Rocket Successfully Reaches Orbit and Releases Satellites in Key Test
In a significant milestone for Japan’s space program, the country’s flagship H3 rocket successfully reached orbit and released two small observation satellites in a crucial second test. This achievement comes after a failed debut launch last year, instilling hope for Japan’s position in the global space race.
The H3 rocket took off from the Tanegashima Space Center on Saturday morning, following a two-day delay due to unfavorable weather conditions. It soared to an altitude of approximately 670 kilometers (420 miles) and successfully deployed two satellites, as confirmed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
JAXA President Hiroshi Yamakawa expressed relief and joy during a news conference, stating, “We feel so relieved to be able to announce the good results.” He further emphasized the significance of this accomplishment, saying, “We made a big first step today toward achieving that goal.” The primary objectives of the H3 rocket are to establish independent access to space and compete in the growing international demand for satellite launches.
This successful launch is a boost for Japan’s space program, which has recently experienced a string of victories. Just last month, an unmanned spacecraft achieved a historic precision touchdown on the moon. The liftoff of the H3 rocket was closely monitored as a crucial test for Japan’s space development, especially considering the failure of its debut flight in March last year when the second-stage engine failed to ignite.
The H3 rocket is being developed by JAXA and its main contractor, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, as a successor to the current mainstay, H-2A. The H-2A is set to retire after two more flights. As the rocket soared into space and successfully released its first payload, there were scenes of jubilation at the JAXA command center. Livestreaming footage showed project members cheering and embracing each other, while some staff at a press center were moved to tears of relief and joy.
JAXA H3 project manager Masashi Okada described the result as “perfect,” stating that the H3 successfully completed all missions set for Saturday’s flight. He expressed his relief, saying, “After a long wait, the newborn H3 finally had its first cry.” However, Okada acknowledged that this is just the beginning for the H3 rocket and emphasized the team’s commitment to continuous improvement.
The H3 No. 2 rocket was adorned with thousands of stickers carrying messages from well-wishers across the country, symbolizing the support and enthusiasm surrounding Japan’s space endeavors. The two microsatellites piggybacked on the H3 rocket were the observation satellite CE-SAT-IE, developed by Canon Electronics, and TIRSAT, co-developed by several companies and universities. The makers of these satellites expressed their willingness to take the opportunity, recognizing the growing market in the satellite business.
The H3 rocket, measuring 57 meters (187 feet) in length, is designed to carry larger payloads than its predecessor, H-2A, at significantly lower costs of approximately 50 billion yen ($330 million). This cost advantage aims to enhance Japan’s global competitiveness in the satellite launch market. Masayuki Eguchi, head of defense and space segment at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, expressed optimism about achieving better price competitiveness after a dozen more launches.
The success of the H3 rocket comes on the heels of Japan’s recent achievements in space exploration. Last month, an H-2A rocket successfully placed a spy satellite into its intended orbit. Shortly after, JAXA’s unmanned spacecraft SLIM accomplished the world’s first “pinpoint” moon landing and collected lunar data.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed his delight at these remarkable accomplishments in the space sector, stating, “I’m delighted to see this incredible accomplishment in the space sector right after the success of the SLIM moon landing.” He expressed his expectations for the steady progress of Japan’s mainstay rocket.
Japan’s H3 rocket reaching orbit and releasing satellites marks a significant step forward for the country’s space program. With its sights set on securing independent access to space and competing globally, Japan is poised to make further advancements in the field of space exploration.
