Japan successfully launched the fifth H3 rocket from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture, southwestern Japan, on February 2.

The liftoff occurred at around 5:30 p.m.

About 30 minutes later, a quasi-zenith satellite called the Michibiki Number 6 was separated and put into orbit.

The Michibiki is referred to as Japan's GPS satellite and is expected to enhance the accuracy of location information used in car navigation systems and smartphones.

It will also convey information in times of disasters.

With five Michibiki satellites now in orbit, the government plans to launch two more by March 2026 for Japan’s own satellite positioning system that can operate without depending on positioning satellites of other countries.

This is the fourth consecutive successful launch of an H3 vehicle, starting with the H3 Number 2 in February 2024.