Japan takes major step toward independent GPS system with latest rocket launch

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has successfully launched the fifth H-3 rocket carrying the Michibiki No. 6 satellite from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture. 

The satellite was placed into its intended orbit, marking another step in Japan’s efforts to develop a domestic Global Positioning System (GPS), Caliber.Az reports via Japanese media.

The Michibiki satellite series, launched since 2010, is designed to provide location data with high precision, down to several centimeters. With four satellites already in operation, Japan plans to operate a full domestic positioning system with seven Michibiki satellites by fiscal 2025, eliminating its reliance on foreign GPS data. The government envisions expanding the fleet to 11 satellites in the future.

The Michibiki No. 6 satellite, approximately 19 meters long with its solar panels deployed, weighs around 1.9 tons. Development costs for this satellite and two others planned for launch in the next fiscal year total about ¥100 billion.

The launch was made possible by the H-3 rocket, a collaboration between JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. After a setback with a failed launch in March 2023, the H-3 series has successfully completed subsequent launches starting in February 2024. Mitsubishi Heavy is aiming to secure more contracts by building on this successful launch track record.

Looking ahead, JAXA intends to transfer the launch business to Mitsubishi Heavy as it works to meet diverse commercial demands while strengthening Japan’s space capabilities.

By Khagan Isayev