The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) successfully launched the fifth H-3 rocket carrying the Michibiki No. 6 satellite. This satellite will contribute to Japan’s positioning system, a vital part of its version of the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS). The launch took place at 5:30 p.m. from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture, and the satellite was successfully placed into its designated orbit.
The Michibiki satellite series is a cornerstone of Japan’s space infrastructure. It provides high-precision location data with centimeter-level accuracy and is integral to the country’s future self-sufficiency in navigation systems. With the aim to have seven Michibiki satellites operational by fiscal 2025 and ultimately expand to 11, Japan is working toward reducing its reliance on external GPS sources. The H-3 rocket, developed by JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, has gained success after overcoming an earlier setback in 2023, and its future launches will be crucial for Japan’s space ambitions.
Key Details
Launch Details
- Launch Date & Time: Sunday, at 5:30 p.m.
- Launch Site: Tanegashima Space Center, Kagoshima Prefecture
Satellite Details
- Satellite: Michibiki No. 6 satellite
- Satellite Series: Part of Japan’s Michibiki GPS system
Satellite Specifications
- Length: 19 meters with solar panels deployed
- Weight: 1.9 tons
- Development Cost: ¥100 billion for Michibiki No. 6 and two future satellites
- Rocket Series: H-3, developed by JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Other Info
- Purpose: This satellite will contribute to Japan’s positioning system, a vital part of its version of the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS)
- It provides high-precision location data with centimeter-level accuracy and is integral to the country’s future self-sufficiency in navigation systems.
- Successful Launches: The first H-3 rocket failed in March 2023, but the subsequent launches (second through fifth) have been successful since February 2024.
- Future Plans: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries aims to secure more orders, and JAXA plans to transfer the launch business to Mitsubishi in the future.
Summary/Static | Details |
Why in the news? | Japan’s H-3 Rocket Successfully Launches Michibiki No. 6 Satellite |
Agency | Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) |
Satellite | Michibiki No. 6 |
Launch Site | Tanegashima Space Center, Kagoshima Prefecture |
Launch Date & Time | Sunday, 5:30 p.m. |
Orbit | Successfully placed into target orbit |
Satellite Series | Michibiki (7 satellites planned for fiscal 2025) |
Satellite Length | 19 meters (with solar panels deployed) |
Satellite Weight | 1.9 tons |
Development Cost | ¥100 billion (Michibiki No. 6 & 2 future satellites) |
Rocket Development | JAXA & Mitsubishi Heavy Industries |
Future Plans | Increase orders for Mitsubishi Heavy; transfer business from JAXA to Mitsubishi |