TANEGASHIMA, JAPAN / RankWire.AI / – On Tuesday, Japan successfully launched its H3 rocket, carrying the Michibiki No. 7 navigation satellite into orbit from the Tanegashima Space Center. The H3 Flight No. 9 took off at 4:23:31 a.m. Japan time. JAXA stated that the launch vehicle maintained its planned trajectory throughout the mission. The satellite detached approximately 29 minutes after liftoff and reached its designated orbit.
Also known as QZS-7, Michibiki No. 7 joins Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System. The network complements the U.S. Global Positioning System to enhance positioning, navigation, and timing services. Japan began providing operational QZSS services in November 2018. The system covers Japan and extends support to users across parts of the wider Asia-Oceania region.
The QZSS program is overseen by Japan’s Cabinet Office through the National Space Policy Secretariat. Originally, officials scheduled the QZS-7 launch for February 2026 but postponed it following an earlier H3 mission failure. JAXA later targeted August 10 for a new launch attempt after completing additional preparations. Due to weather conditions, the liftoff was delayed to August 11, when the rocket successfully completed its mission.
H3 achieves another successful mission after previous setbacks
This successful launch came after 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 intended orbit. JAXA conducted an investigation into the failure and resumed H3 launches with a successful test mission in June 2026.
H3 Flight No. 6 launched on June 12 and achieved its planned orbit during that return-to-flight. It also deployed multiple small payloads during the test. The H3 serves as Japan’s primary launch vehicle, replacing the long-standing H-IIA rocket family. JAXA developed the system with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to bolster domestic launch capabilities as Japan expands its space launch infrastructure.
Michibiki enhances Japan’s satellite navigation network
Designed to improve satellite positioning coverage, Japan’s QZSS maintains compatibility with GPS services. The constellation includes satellites positioned in quasi-zenith and geostationary orbits, supporting positioning, navigation, timing, and various augmentation services within its operational zone. The Cabinet Office provided updated technical information in July, detailing operations under a six-satellite setup involving QZS-7.
Japan continues to plan for a seven-satellite QZSS constellation as part of its official satellite navigation program. QZS-7 is a key component of the ongoing expansion of the Michibiki network. Tuesday’s launch fulfilled its primary mission by placing the satellite into the correct orbit, marking a successful milestone following the H3 rocket’s return to flight in June.