Success! Japan Launches New H3 Rocket After Previous Setback

On Saturday, February 17, Japan’s space program celebrated a significant triumph with the successful launch of the H3 rocket, marking a crucial rebound from the failed initial launch last year. This progress is part of Japan’s ongoing advancements in space exploration, highlighted recently by the precise lunar landing of the SLIM spacecraft.

The H3 rocket, a collaborative effort between the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, is set to succeed the older H-IIA rocket. It aims to be more cost-effective and capable of carrying larger payloads, enhancing Japan’s competitiveness in attracting international launch contracts.

The rocket was launched at 9:22 am Tokyo time, with its engines functioning correctly, a moment of triumph for the team at the Tanegashima Space Center. This launch’s mission involved deploying micro-satellites and a test satellite.

The initial launch of the H3 faced challenges due to technical glitches, with investigations suggesting electrical issues without pinpointing a definitive cause. The successful launch of this second test model of the H3, capable of carrying up to 6.5 metric tonnes and offering reduced launch costs, signifies a forward leap in Japan’s space exploration strategy.

Looking ahead, Japan plans to expand its space missions, including satellite deployments, collaborative lunar explorations with India and the U.S., and participation in the Artemis moon program. This advancement comes as the global space race intensifies, with commercial entities like SpaceX and traditional organizations like the United Launch Alliance and the European Space Agency expanding their capabilities.