Japan’s space agency, JAXA, on Sunday launched its new H3 rocket carrying an unmanned cargo spacecraft designed to deliver supplies to the International Space Station.
The H3 No. 7 rocket lifted off from the Tanegashima Space Center in southern Japan, carrying the new HTV-X1 cargo transfer spacecraft. According to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, the spacecraft separated as planned and entered its intended orbit shortly after launch.
If the mission continues as scheduled, the spacecraft is expected to reach the International Space Station within a few days. Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui, who is currently on board the station, will capture the arriving craft using a robotic arm early Thursday.
The HTV-X, known as the successor to JAXA’s previous H-II Transfer Vehicle (Kounotori, meaning “stork”), represents a major upgrade in Japan’s space logistics program. Between 2009 and 2020, the Kounotori vehicles completed nine missions to the ISS.
According to JAXA, the HTV-X can carry a larger payload and provide power during flight, allowing it to transport lab materials and biological samples that need low-temperature storage.
The new spacecraft will remain docked to the ISS for up to six months to deliver supplies and return waste. After leaving the station, it will continue orbiting Earth for about three months to carry out additional technical missions.
The launch also marks another success for Japan’s H3 rocket series, which replaced the long-serving H-2A that made its final flight in June.
The H3 rocket, developed to make Japan’s space program more cost-efficient and competitive globally, has now recorded six straight successful flights following its initial failure in 2023.
Officials said the success demonstrates Japan’s growing confidence in building a stable and commercially viable space transport system, which they consider crucial for both research and national security.
