Japan Launches Navigation Satellite Aboard New Rocket

Japan launched the Michibiki 6 satellite using its new H3 rocket from the Tanegashima Space Center on Sunday. This marks the fourth successful flight for the H3 system, following a failed debut attempt last year when the rocket was destroyed with its payload. This satellite is part of Japan's efforts to enhance its regional navigation system, known as the quasi-zenith satellite system (QZSS), which currently consists of four satellites. The goal is to improve global positioning capabilities without relying on foreign services, such as the American GPS. Plans include increasing the network to seven satellites by March 2026 and ultimately expanding to 11 satellites by the late 2030s.

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) confirmed the launch went as planned, despite a one-day delay due to weather conditions. This undertaking is seen as crucial for Japan's ambition to establish a stable and commercially viable space transport capability. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)