NEWS – Japan launched the GOSAT-GW climate satellite on June 29, 2025, marking the final flight of its H-2A rocket.

DETAILS

• The H-2A, active since 2001, completed 50 missions with a 98% success rate, now succeeded by the H3 rocket.
• The launch was delayed due to electrical issues but succeeded from Tanegashima Space Centre.
• GOSAT-GW will monitor carbon, methane, and the global water cycle, distributing high-resolution data worldwide, including to the U.S. NOAA.
• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, operating the launches since 2007, emphasized trust earned through H-2A.
• H-2A previously launched notable missions like the SLIM moon lander and Hayabusa2 asteroid mission.
• Japan aims to maintain cost-effective and stable space transport, vital for its space program and national security.
• The new H3 rocket offers larger payloads at half the cost, while the Epsilon system supports smaller missions.