Japan successfully launched a climate-monitoring satellite aboard its H-2A rocket on Sunday, marking the rocket’s final mission. The H-2A, which lifted off from the Tanegashima Space Center, carried the GOSAT-GW satellite into space. After about 16 minutes, the satellite reached its planned orbit.
As soon as the separation happened, scientists and engineers celebrated in the control room. Many exchanged hugs and handshakes, relieved by the success after earlier delays due to an electrical issue.
Suzuki Expresses Relief on Final Launch
Keiji Suzuki, who led the launch for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, shared his emotions by saying, “I’ve spent my entire life at work not to drop H-2A rocket … All I can say is I’m so relieved.” His words reflected the pressure of ending a career-defining journey.
Satellite to Track Climate Changes
Moreover, the new GOSAT-GW satellite plays a major role in Japan’s effort to fight climate change. It will observe carbon dioxide, methane, and water cycles from space. According to officials, within a year, it will start sending high-resolution data on sea temperatures and precipitation to organizations worldwide, including the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
A Historic Moment for Japanese Space Program
This launch marked the 50th and final flight of the H-2A, a rocket that has supported Japan’s space goals since 2001. Remarkably, it achieved a 98% success rate, with only one failure in 2003. Over the years, it helped send major missions into space, including the Hayabusa2 asteroid probe and the SLIM moon lander.
During a press conference, JAXA President Hiroshi Yamakawa said, “It is a deeply emotional moment for all of us at JAXA as a developer.”
H3 to Replace the Legendary H-2A
Now that the H-2A is retired, Japan is focusing on the H3 rocket, which is already in use. Notably, the H3 can carry larger payloads at half the cost, making it more competitive in the global market.
Although the H3’s debut failed in 2023, it has now completed four successful launches in a row. Suzuki noted that “the completion of H-2A lets him put more resources into further development of the H3.”
Japan’s Broader Space Ambitions
Furthermore, Japan is also developing a smaller rocket called Epsilon with help from IHI Corporation. Together, the H3 and Epsilon systems aim to give Japan more flexibility to meet different customer needs. According to officials, Japan sees reliable and affordable space transport as key to both its commercial goals and national security.