The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) launched the second H3 Launch Vehicle (H3TF2) at 9:22:55 (JST) on February 17, 2024, from the Tanegashima Space Center. The Launch Vehicle flew as planned, and the second stage of the H3 Launch Vehicle was injected into the predetermined orbit.
Approximately 16 minutes and 43 seconds after the liftoff, the separation of the CE-SAT-IE was confirmed. Additionally, based on the post-Earth orbit data from the second-stage vehicle, JAXA confirmed that the separation signal was sent to the TIRSAT, controlled re-entry of the second stage was performed, and the separation of the Vehicle Evaluation Payload-4 (VEP-4) was verified.
The H3 Launch Vehicle is Japan's next-generation new mainstay heavy-lift launch vehicle. It is now being developed to be a successor to the H-IIA rocket currently in operation so that Japan can continuously have access to space.
JAXA appreciates all for the support shown in behalf of the launch of the second H3 Launch Vehicle.
Click here to learn more about the H3 Launch Vehicle Test Flight No.2.
