Japan Launches Upgraded Disaster Response Satellite on New H3 Rocket

Japan successfully launched its upgraded Earth observation satellite, ALOS-4, on the new H3 rocket. This satellite will aid in disaster response, mapmaking, and military monitoring. The launch marks a significant milestone for Japan's space program, aiming for commercial viability and enhanced national security.

Japan successfully deployed an advanced Earth observation satellite aimed at enhancing disaster response and security, following its launch on the new flagship H3 rocket on Monday.

The H3 No. 3 rocket, launched from the Tanegashima Space Centre on a southwestern Japanese island, released its payload approximately 16 minutes after liftoff, as confirmed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) during a livestream.

The Advanced Land Observation Satellite (ALOS-4) is designed primarily for Earth observation and data collection, crucial for disaster response and mapmaking. It also possesses capabilities to monitor military activities, such as missile launches, utilizing an infrared sensor developed by the Defence Ministry.

The rocket performed as expected, with JAXA planning to provide further details at a news conference later Monday. The launch, initially scheduled for Sunday, was postponed due to adverse weather conditions at the launch site.

ALOS-4 succeeds the current ALOS-2, offering the ability to observe a much broader area. Both satellites will operate concurrently for the time being.

This launch represents the third attempt for the H3 system, following a successful launch on February 17 and a failed debut flight a year prior, where the rocket and its payload, the ALOS-3 satellite, had to be destroyed.

Japan views a stable, commercially competitive space transport capability as essential to its space program and national security.

JAXA, along with its main contractor Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, has been developing the H3 launch system to succeed the H-2A, which will retire after two more flights. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries aims to make the H3 system commercially viable by halving the launch costs compared to the H-2A.

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)