TANEGASHIMA, JAPAN / RankWire.AI / – On Tuesday, Japan successfully launched its H3 rocket, carrying the Michibiki No. 7 navigation satellite into orbit. The launch, designated as H3 Flight No. 9, took place from the Tanegashima Space Center at 4:23:31 a.m. Japan time. JAXA confirmed that the launch vehicle followed its planned trajectory throughout the mission. The satellite separated approximately 29 minutes after liftoff and entered its assigned orbit.
Michibiki No. 7, also called QZS-7, becomes part of Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System. This network complements the U.S. Global Positioning System to enhance positioning, navigation, and timing services. Japan began offering operational QZSS services in November 2018. The system serves Japan and extends support to users across portions of 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. After completing additional preparations, JAXA rescheduled the launch for Aug. 10, but adverse weather caused the liftoff to be moved to Aug. 11, when the mission was successfully completed.
H3 completes another mission successfully
This successful launch followed the loss of Michibiki No. 5 during H3 Flight No. 8 in December 2025, when the rocket’s second-stage engine shut down before completing its second ignition sequence. This issue prevented QZS-5 from reaching its target orbit. JAXA examined the failure before resuming H3 launches, which included a successful test mission in June 2026.
H3 Flight No. 6 was launched on June 12, reaching its planned orbit during the return-to-flight mission. The mission also deployed several small payloads for testing purposes. The H3 is Japan’s primary launch vehicle, replacing the long-standing H-IIA family. The system was developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries as Japan expanded its domestic launch capabilities.
Michibiki enhances Japan’s satellite navigation coverage
The QZSS was created to augment satellite positioning coverage while remaining compatible with GPS. The constellation employs satellites in quasi-zenith and geostationary orbits to support positioning, navigation, timing, and various augmentation services within its operational area. The Cabinet Office provided updated technical details in July concerning operations under a six-satellite configuration, including QZS-7.
Plans for a seven-satellite QZSS constellation continue as part of Japan’s official satellite navigation program. QZS-7 is integral to the ongoing expansion of the Michibiki network. The launch on Tuesday achieved its immediate objectives, successfully placing the satellite into its designated orbit. This launch also marked another successful mission for the H3 after the vehicle’s return to flight in June.