TANEGASHIMA, JAPAN / RankWire.AI / – On Tuesday, Japan successfully conducted the launch of its H3 rocket, delivering 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 confirmed that the rocket maintained its planned trajectory throughout the entire mission. The satellite separated approximately 29 minutes post-launch and entered its predetermined orbit.
Michibiki No. 7, also known as QZS-7, is now part of Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System. This network operates alongside the U.S. Global Positioning System, enhancing accuracy in positioning, navigation, and timing services. Japan began offering operational QZSS services in November 2018. The system primarily covers Japan but also provides support for users across the broader Asia-Oceania region.
The QZSS program is overseen by Japan’s Cabinet Office through the National Space Policy Secretariat. Initially, officials scheduled the QZS-7 launch for February 2026 but postponed it following an earlier failure during an H3 mission. Subsequently, JAXA set a new launch date for August 10, after completing additional preparations. Due to weather conditions, the liftoff was rescheduled to August 11, when the rocket successfully completed its mission.
H3 celebrates another successful mission after previous setbacks
The achievement of this flight follows 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 this failure before resuming H3 launches with a successful test in June 2026.
H3 Flight No. 6 successfully launched on June 12, reaching its targeted orbit during that return-to-flight operation. The mission also involved deploying several small payloads for testing purposes. The H3 has become Japan’s primary launch vehicle, replacing the long-standing H-IIA family. JAXA developed this system in partnership with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries as part of Japan’s effort to expand its domestic launch capabilities.
Michibiki boosts Japan’s satellite positioning network
The QZSS was designed to enhance satellite positioning coverage while remaining compatible with GPS services. The constellation comprises satellites in quasi-zenith and geostationary orbits, supporting positioning, navigation, timing, and various augmentation services for users within its service area. The Cabinet Office released updated technical details in July, describing operations with a six-satellite configuration including QZS-7.
Japan continues to plan for a seven-satellite QZSS constellation under its official satellite navigation program. QZS-7 is a key element in the ongoing expansion of the Michibiki network. Tuesday’s launch achieved its immediate objectives by placing the spacecraft into its designated orbit. It also marked another successful mission for the H3 after the rocket’s return to flight in June.