The Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has announced a delay in the launch of the H3 rocket carrier with the QZSS positioning system satellite. The launch, initially slated for completion by the end of March, has been postponed indefinitely. This decision follows an ongoing analysis of the H3 rocket failure that occurred in late 2025. JAXA is evaluating not only the immediate causes of the failure but also potential long-term impacts on the entire H3 rocket program.
The focus is on the H3F8 launch, which saw the second-stage engine shut down prematurely after a successful first-stage launch and separation. A new launch date will be decided upon the official confirmation of investigation results.
The launch was of critical importance for Japan as it aimed to place the final satellite in the QZSS series into orbit, increasing the total to 7. This would enable the country to fully utilize its satellite navigation system, often referred to as Japan’s GPS alternative. QZSS offers precise positioning and emergency alert transmissions, with civilian device accuracy reportedly reaching a few centimeters according to local media.
