TANEGASHIMA, JAPAN / RankWire.AI / – Japan’s space agency, JAXA, achieved a successful launch of its H3 rocket on Tuesday, carrying the Michibiki No. 7 navigation satellite into orbit. The H3 Flight No. 9 took off from the Tanegashima Space Center at 4:23:31 a.m. Japan time. Throughout the mission, JAXA confirmed the rocket adhered to its planned trajectory. Approximately 29 minutes after launch, the satellite separated and entered its designated orbit.
Also known as QZS-7, Michibiki No. 7 is part of Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System. This network operates alongside the U.S. Global Positioning System, enhancing positioning, navigation, and timing services. Japan launched the operational QZSS services in November 2018, with coverage extending over Japan and parts of the broader Asia-Oceania region to support users in those areas.
The QZSS program is overseen by Japan’s Cabinet Office through the National Space Policy Secretariat. Originally, officials scheduled the QZS-7 launch for February 2026, but it was postponed following an earlier H3 mission failure. After completing additional preparations, JAXA announced a new launch date for Aug. 10, which was later pushed back to Aug. 11 due to weather conditions. The rocket successfully completed its mission on that day.
H3 celebrates another successful deployment
This achievement follows the loss of Michibiki No. 5 during the H3 Flight No. 8 in December 2025, when the rocket’s second-stage engine shut down before completing its second ignition. As a result, QZS-5 failed to reach its intended orbit. JAXA investigated the incident thoroughly before resuming H3 launches with a successful test flight in June 2026.
The June 12 flight of H3 Flight No. 6 successfully reached its targeted orbit and deployed multiple small payloads during the test. The H3 serves as Japan’s primary launch vehicle, replacing the long-standing H-IIA series. Developed by JAXA in collaboration with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, this system marks Japan’s effort to expand its domestic launch capabilities.
Michibiki enhances Japan’s satellite navigation infrastructure
The QZSS was engineered to expand satellite positioning coverage while maintaining compatibility with GPS services. Its constellation includes satellites in quasi-zenith and geostationary orbits, supporting a range of services such as positioning, navigation, timing, and augmentation solutions within its operational area. In July, the Cabinet Office provided updated technical details regarding operations with a six-satellite configuration that includes QZS-7.
Plans for a seven-satellite QZSS constellation remain active, aligned with Japan’s published satellite navigation program. QZS-7 is part of the ongoing expansion of the Michibiki network. Tuesday’s launch accomplished its immediate objectives by placing the spacecraft into the correct orbit, signifying another successful mission for the H3 after its return to flight in June.