Japan successfully launched an intelligence-gathering radar satellite aboard an H2A rocket on September 26, marking a significant step in its space-based surveillance capabilities.
The H2A Flight 49 lifted off from Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture at 14:24:20 Japan Standard Time, following two weather-related postponements, according to Kyodo News.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the launch provider, confirmed the mission’s success in a statement: “The rocket flew as planned, and we confirmed the normal separation of the Information Gathering Satellite Radar No. 8.”
This launch represents the second-to-last mission for the H2A rocket. MHI has already completed production of the core stage for the 50th and final H2A launch vehicle at its Tobishima Plant in the Nagoya Aerospace Systems Works, Aichi Prefecture. The core stage is scheduled for shipment to the Tanegashima Space Center.
The H2A has served as Japan’s flagship launch vehicle since its first flight in 2001, delivering various payloads to space with a remarkable launch success rate of approximately 98% over 48 launches to date. Following the 50th launch, the H2A will be succeeded by the next-generation H3 rocket, developed jointly by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and MHI.
The radar satellite launched on the 49th mission will monitor ground conditions from orbit, serving dual roles in national security and disaster response assessment.
MHI began providing comprehensive launch services in 2007, coordinating the entire process from launch vehicle manufacturing to execution of the launch campaign. The company has played a crucial role in advancing Japan’s autonomous space transportation capabilities
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