Japan has effectively launched an enhanced Earth observation satellite dedicated to disaster response and security. The satellite was deployed using the new flagship H3 rocket, which took off from the Tanegashima Space Center located on a southwestern Japanese island. Approximately 16 minutes after liftoff, the H3 No. 3 rocket released its payload into the intended orbit as per the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), as announced in a livestream.
The Advanced Land Observation Satellite, known as ALOS-4, has been designated for Earth observation and data gathering essential for disaster response, map creation, and monitoring volcanic, seismic, and other land movements. Additionally, equipped with an infrared sensor developed by the Defense Ministry, it has capabilities to monitor military activities, including missile launches.
JAXA President Hiroshi Yamakawa praised the successful launch as “a big first step" toward ensuring Japan's access to space and international competitiveness. “I believe the two successful flights in a row would help gain trust from in and outside the country". JAXA's H3 Project Manager Makoto Arita said the mission was “almost a perfect success”.
ALOS-4, succeeding the current ALOS-2, boasts an expanded observation range. Japan plans to continue operating both satellites concurrently. This launch marks the third successful deployment of the H3 system, following its previous success on February 17. The system's debut a year earlier ended in failure when the rocket carrying its payload, intended to be ALOS-3, had to be destroyed. Japan views a reliable, commercially competitive space transportation capability as crucial to its space program and national security objectives.
JAXA, in collaboration with its primary contractor Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, has been advancing the development of the H3 launch system to replace its current mainstay, the H-2A. The H-2A is scheduled for retirement after two more flights. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries aims to assume responsibility for H3 production and launches from JAXA, intending to enhance commercial viability by reducing launch costs to approximately half those of the H-2A. “We will continue to improve our success record and gain trust from our customers”, said Koji Shimura, H3 project manager at MHI's defense and space segment.