February 2, 2025 – Japan successfully launched the Michibiki 6 navigation satellite on February 2. The H3 rocket lifted off from Tanega Shima Space Center at 3:30 a.m. Eastern. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries developed the rocket.
Michibiki 6, also called QZS-6, weighs 1,900 kilograms. It will enhance Japan’s GPS accuracy and reliability. The satellite will be positioned 35,786 kilometers above the equator at 90.5 degrees East.
Japan launched the first Michibiki satellite in 2010. The country plans to expand its navigation system to 11 satellites.
H3 made a dissatisfying debut in 2023 but has since performed several successful launches. It intends to be a low-cost choice in the worldwide launch market.
Japan anticipates more launches in 2025, including the final H-2A mission and the HTV-X cargo spacecraft journey to the ISS. The strong H3-24 model could potentially be released this year.
