Makoto Arita, a senior official of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), announced at the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture that the launch of the ALOS-4 satellite on the H3 rocket would be delayed from its original schedule due to the forecasted rain and thunderstorms on Saturday night. The rocket, initially planned for launch on Sunday, will now take place on Monday to ensure safety and optimal launch conditions.
The ALOS-4 satellite, Japan's latest addition to its Earth observation capabilities, will not only aid in disaster response and mapmaking but will also monitor military activities like missile launches using an infrared sensor technology provided by the Defense Ministry. This launch marks the H3 rocket's third mission, following a successful launch in February and a previous failed attempt in the rocket's debut flight, highlighting Japan's commitment to advancing its space program for both scientific and national security purposes. JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are collaborating on the H3 project, aiming to replace the current H-2A rocket and reduce launch costs significantly to increase commercial competitiveness in the space industry.