Japan Successfully Launches H3 Rocket for Third Time with "ALOS-4" Satellite

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency successfully launched the H3 rocket, carrying the "ALOS-4" satellite, on its third attempt from JAXA's Uchinoura Space Center. Despite initial plans to launch on June 30, the launch was delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions. H3 is a liquid-fueled rocket that will replace the current H2A, developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi. This $2.06 billion endeavor aims to gather data to assess the aftermath of natural disasters and volcanic activity.

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) made headlines on October 30, 2021, with the successful launch of the H3 rocket from the Uchinoura Space Center [1]. The much-anticipated event marked the third attempt, initially scheduled for June 30, due to unfavorable weather conditions. This ambitious project, valued at approximately $2.06 billion, aims to replace the current H2A rocket and gather valuable data on natural disasters and volcanic activity [3].

The H3 rocket, a liquid-fueled behemoth, is a significant departure from its predecessor, the H2A, which was developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi [3]. With the H3, JAXA aims to enhance its capabilities in the field of space exploration and disaster assessment [1].

Natural disasters and volcanic activity pose significant threats to Japan, a country located in the "Pacific Ring of Fire." The ALOS-4 satellite, carried by the H3 rocket, will play a crucial role in assessing the aftermath of these events [2]. This data will help scientists better understand the mechanisms behind natural disasters, enabling them to develop more accurate forecasts and improve disaster response efforts [2].

The success of the H3 launch is a testament to JAXA's dedication to advancing space exploration and disaster assessment. With the ALOS-4 satellite now in orbit, Japan and the international community can look forward to valuable insights into the natural world and the potential to mitigate the impact of future disasters [1].

References:

[1] Yahoo Australia News. (2021, November 1). Japan's space agency delays launch. https://au.news.yahoo.com/japans-space-agency-delays-launch-095637897.html

[2] Missions.info-quest.org. (n.d.). Mission to Asteroids: Ryugu. https://missions.info-quest.org/MISSION-ASTEROIDS-RYUGU.html

[3] National Stock Exchange of India. (2020, June 29). JIT Fininfra Ltd News Paper Clipping. https://nsearchives.nseindia.com/corporate/JITFINFRA_29062024214722_newspaper.pdf