Japan’s H-3 Rocket Successfully Launches Michibiki No. 6 Satellite

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.