TANEGASHIMA, JAPAN / RankWire.AI / – On Tuesday, Japan achieved a successful launch of its H3 rocket, which carried the Michibiki No. 7 navigation satellite into orbit. The launch, identified as H3 Flight No. 9, took place from the Tanegashima Space Center at 4:23:31 a.m. Japan time. JAXA reported that the launch vehicle maintained its planned trajectory throughout the entire mission. Approximately 29 minutes after liftoff, the satellite separated and entered its predetermined orbit.
Known also as QZS-7, Michibiki No. 7 becomes part of Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System. This network operates in conjunction with the U.S. Global Positioning System to enhance positioning, navigation, and timing services. Japan’s QZSS began offering operational services in November 2018. The system not only covers Japan but also extends support to users across certain parts of the broader Asia-Oceania region.
The QZSS program is overseen by Japan’s Cabinet Office through the National Space Policy Secretariat. Originally, officials scheduled the launch of QZS-7 for February 2026; however, it was postponed following an earlier failure during an H3 mission. Subsequently, JAXA set a new launch date for August 10 after completing further preparations. Weather conditions ultimately led to the liftoff being rescheduled to August 11, when the mission was successfully completed.
H3 Achieves Another Triumph with Successful Mission
This success came after the loss of Michibiki No. 5 during H3 Flight No. 8 in December 2025. During that launch, the second-stage engine shut down before completing its second ignition, preventing QZS-5 from reaching its designated orbit. An investigation into this failure was conducted by JAXA before the agency resumed H3 launches, which included a successful test mission in June 2026.
H3 Flight No. 6, launched on June 12, reached its targeted orbit as part of the return-to-flight effort. The mission also deployed several small payloads during the process. Serving as Japan’s primary launch vehicle, the H3 replaces the long-standing H-IIA rocket family. Developed in partnership with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the system marks Japan’s effort to expand its domestic launch capabilities.
Michibiki Enhances Japan’s Satellite Navigation Capabilities
Designed to broaden satellite positioning coverage while remaining compatible with GPS, Japan’s QZSS employs satellites in quasi-zenith and geostationary orbits. It provides support for positioning, navigation, timing, and multiple augmentation services within its coverage zone. The Cabinet Office issued an update on technical details in July, which included operations involving a six-satellite configuration with QZS-7.
Furthermore, Japan continues to plan for a full seven-satellite constellation under its official satellite navigation program. QZS-7 is a key element in the ongoing expansion of the Michibiki network. The launch on Tuesday successfully achieved its immediate mission objectives by placing the satellite into its designated orbit. This accomplishment also signifies another successful mission for the H3 launch vehicle since its return to flight in June.