Japan on Sunday successfully launched a climate change monitoring satellite aboard its mainstay H-2A rocket, marking the rocket's final mission before being replaced by a more cost-effective flagship model aimed at boosting Japan’s competitiveness in the global space market.
The H-2A rocket lifted off from the Tanegashima Space Center in southwestern Japan, carrying the GOSAT-GW satellite as part of the country’s efforts to tackle climate change. About 16 minutes after liftoff, the satellite was safely separated from the rocket and released into its planned orbit.
Scientists and space officials at the control room exchanged hugs and handshakes to celebrate the successful mission, which had been delayed for several days due to an electrical system malfunction on the rocket.
Keiji Suzuki, a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries official overseeing rocket launch operations, expressed relief following the mission’s success. “I've spent my entire life at work not to drop H-2A rocket ... All I can say is I'm so relieved,” he said.
Sunday’s mission marked the 50th and final flight for the H-2A, which has been Japan’s primary rocket for launching satellites and probes into space since its debut in 2001. The rocket, with a near-perfect record, will now be fully replaced by the H3 rocket, which is already operational.
The GOSAT-GW, or Global Observing Satellite for Greenhouse gases and water cycle, is the third satellite in Japan’s mission to monitor greenhouse gases including carbon dioxide and methane.
Within a year, it will begin providing high-resolution global data on sea surface temperatures, precipitation, and other climate indicators to users worldwide, including the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, officials said.
Meanwhile, following a failed debut in 2023, when the rocket and its payload had to be destroyed, the H3 has since completed four consecutive successful flights.
Source: AP
Bd-pratidin English/FNC
