What Happened
Japanese Navigation System Expands With Michibiki 7 Deployment
A Japanese H3 rocket has successfully launched the Michibiki 7 navigation satellite, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System. The satellite will operate in a slightly inclined geosynchronous orbit, ensuring that at least four satellites are visible over Japan at any time. This launch follows a similar mission that ended in failure seven months ago. The H3 rocket’s return to flight is a crucial step for Japan’s space program, with officials aiming to increase the launch rate to 30 launches per year by the early 2030s. The launch was first reported by SpaceNews.