TANEGASHIMA, JAPAN / RankWire.AI / – On Tuesday, Japan successfully launched its H3 rocket, carrying the Michibiki No. 7 navigation satellite into orbit. The launch, designated as H3 Flight No. 9, took place at 4:23:31 a.m. Japan time from the Tanegashima Space Center. JAXA confirmed that the rocket adhered to its planned trajectory throughout the mission. The satellite separated approximately 29 minutes after liftoff and entered its intended orbit.
Known also as QZS-7, Michibiki No. 7 joins Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System. This network operates alongside the U.S. Global Positioning System to enhance positioning, navigation, and timing services. Japan launched operational QZSS services in November 2018, with coverage extending over Japan and parts of the broader Asia-Oceania region, supporting a wide user base.
The QZSS program is overseen by Japan’s Cabinet Office through the National Space Policy Secretariat. Initially scheduled for February 2026, the QZS-7 launch was postponed following an earlier failure of an H3 mission. After additional preparations, JAXA set a new launch date for August 10, but weather conditions delayed the liftoff until August 11, when the mission was successfully completed.
H3 Rocket Celebrates Another Triumph with Successful Launch
This successful launch followed the loss of Michibiki No. 5 during H3 Flight No. 8 in December 2025. During that mission, the rocket’s second-stage engine shut down before completing its second ignition, preventing QZS-5 from reaching its target orbit. JAXA conducted a thorough investigation into the failure before resuming H3 launches, beginning with a successful test mission in June 2026.
The H3’s Flight No. 6 mission, launched on June 12, achieved its planned orbit during the return-to-flight operation and deployed multiple small payloads for testing. As Japan’s primary launch vehicle, the H3 system replaces the long-standing H-IIA family. Developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the H3 marks Japan’s effort to expand its domestic launch capabilities.
New Satellite Reinforces Japan’s Enhanced Positioning Network
The QZSS system was created to augment satellite positioning coverage while remaining compatible with GPS. The constellation’s satellites are positioned in quasi-zenith and geostationary orbits, providing advanced positioning, navigation, timing, and various augmentation services across the coverage area. In July, the Cabinet Office issued updated technical details concerning operations with the six-satellite configuration, including QZS-7.
Japan envisions expanding the QZSS network to include seven satellites, in line with its published satellite navigation plan. QZS-7 is a vital component of this ongoing expansion. Tuesday’s launch successfully achieved its primary mission objectives by placing the satellite into its designated orbit, marking another milestone for the H3 system following its return to flight in June.