Japan has successfully launched an upgraded Earth observation satellite, designed for disaster response and security, using its new H3 rocket. The H3 No. 3 rocket took off from the Tanegashima Space Centre on a southwestern Japanese island and deployed its payload approximately 16 minutes later, according to a live broadcast by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

The Advanced Land Observation Satellite (ALOS-4) is primarily focused on Earth observation and data collection for disaster management and mapping. Additionally, it has the capability to monitor military activities, such as missile launches, using an infrared sensor developed by the Defence Ministry.

The rocket’s flight proceeded as planned, and JAXA is expected to provide further details in a news conference. The launch, initially scheduled for Sunday, was postponed due to bad weather.

ALOS-4 is a successor to the current ALOS-2 and has a broader observation range. For now, Japan will operate both satellites.

This launch marks the third mission of the H3 system, following a successful launch on February 17. The first attempt a year earlier ended in failure, resulting in the destruction of the rocket and its payload, the ALOS-3 satellite.

Japan aims to establish a stable, commercially competitive space transportation capability, crucial for its space program and national security. JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the main contractor, have been developing the H3 launch system to replace the H-2A, which will retire after two more flights. MHI plans to take over H3 production and launches from JAXA, aiming to make it commercially viable by reducing launch costs to about half of the H-2A.

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