Japan set to retire its H-2A rocket by the end of this year, spy satellite to be launched soon
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
H-2A’s Penultimate Flight
Japan’s H-2A rocket is set for its second-to-last mission on Thursday, Sept. 26, launching a secret spy satellite named IGS-Radar 8 from Tanegashima Space Center at 1:24 a.m. EDT (0524 GMT, 2:24 p.m. local time).
IGS-Radar 8 Mission
The satellite, operated by Japan’s Cabinet Satellite Information Center, will enter a sun-synchronous orbit (SSO), commonly used for spy and weather satellites due to its consistent lighting conditions.
Satellite Purpose
IGS-Radar 8 will gather data using radar technology for intelligence purposes, as well as for monitoring natural disasters, continuing the mission of Japan’s Information Gathering System (IGS) satellite fleet.
IGS Fleet History
The IGS fleet includes both radar and optical satellites. The most recent H-2A mission, in January 2024, launched the IGS-Optical 8 satellite, also heading to a sun-synchronous orbit.
H-2A Rocket Legacy
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has built and operated the H-2A since its debut in 2001. The 174-foot-tall rocket has successfully completed 48 out of 49 missions, with the only failure occurring in 2003.
Final H-2A Launch
The H-2A will be retired after its 50th flight, expected to occur before the end of 2024, marking the end of over two decades of successful launches.
Transition to H3 Rocket
The H-2A will be replaced by Japan’s new H3 rocket, which has launched three times so far, with its most recent flight taking place on June 30, signaling a new era in Japan’s space capabilities.