Japan in first commercial satellite launch

[FarCenter]

Japan successfully put a South Korean satellite into space Friday, in its first foray into the European- and Russian-dominated world of commercial launches.

The H-IIA rocket took off from the southern island of Tanegashima on schedule at 1:39 am (1639 GMT Thursday), according to live images relayed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

The separation of the KOMPSAT-3 satellite from the rocket was confirmed around 16 minutes after take-off, followed shortly afterwards by the separation of three Japanese satellites also carried by the rocket.

...

MHI hopes to carry out more contract launches and secure a foothold in a lucrative market currently dominated by Europe and Russia. The satellite was developed by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute of South Korea to carry out earth observations, officials said.

http://www.france24.com/en/20120517-japan-first-commercial-satellite-launch

[Art_from_Ark]

1. Congratulations to Japan and JAXA

Japan had had some problems with launching satellite-carrying rockets in the past, but it's good to hear they have achieved success. JAXA in Tsukuba actually had an open house the other day for visitors, and it was very interesting to see their displays. I think the husband of a DUer did some work at the JAXA Tsukuba complex a few years ago.