Japan successfully launched a climate-monitoring satellite into orbit on Sunday aboard its H-2A rocket, marking the final flight of the country’s long-serving launch vehicle before it is replaced by a more cost-competitive model.
The H-2A lifted off from the Tanegashima Space Center in southwestern Japan, carrying the GOSAT-GW satellite, part of Japan’s ongoing efforts to address climate change through space-based observation. Approximately 16 minutes after launch, the satellite was released into its planned orbit.
The launch, originally delayed due to electrical issues, was met with applause and hugs in the control room following its success. “I’ve spent my entire life at work not to drop H-2A rocket,” said Keiji Suzuki, a launch operations manager at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. “All I can say is I’m so relieved.”
Sunday’s launch was the 50th and final mission for the H-2A, which debuted in 2001 and has been Japan’s primary launch vehicle for over two decades. With a 98 percent success rate — the only failure occurred in 2003 — the H-2A has carried satellites and interplanetary probes into orbit. It will now be fully replaced by the H3, Japan’s new flagship rocket, which is designed to compete in the increasingly commercial global space market.
The GOSAT-GW, or Global Observing Satellite for Greenhouse Gases and Water Cycle, is the third in a series aimed at monitoring atmospheric carbon dioxide, methane, and other greenhouse gases. Within a year, it is expected to begin distributing high-resolution data on sea surface temperatures and precipitation patterns to international partners, including the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The H-2A, powered by liquid fuel and equipped with two solid-fuel boosters, was developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. Since 2007, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has overseen its launches.
