Tanegashima, Japan — In a significant step for environmental monitoring, Japan successfully launched the GOSAT-GW dual-purpose satellite on Saturday. This launch marks the final mission for the H-IIA rocket series, which has been a pillar of the nation’s space exploration efforts over the past two decades. The rocket lifted off from the Yoshinobu Launch Complex at the Tanegashima Space Center at 12:33 p.m. EDT (4:33 p.m. GMT; 1:33 a.m. local time on June 29).
The Greenhouse Gas and Water Cycle Observation Satellite, known as GOSAT-GW, will enhance Japan’s ongoing commitment to understanding climate change and water dynamics. The satellite joins its predecessor missions in orbit, including GCOM-W2, launched in 2012, and GOSAT-1, which entered space in 2009. Together, these satellites will advance research into the Earth’s water cycles and the impact of greenhouse gases.
Equipped with sophisticated technology, GOSAT-GW features two primary instruments. The Advanced Microwave Radiometer (AMSR) will track variations in sea surface temperatures and related water cycle metrics. Complementing this is the Greenhouse Gases Observation Sensor (TANSO), which will analyze atmospheric components such as carbon dioxide to monitor climate fluctuations.
The H-IIA rocket, developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), has been a highly reliable launch vehicle since its debut in 2001. Over its nearly 25-year history, the rocket achieved a commendable 98% success rate, with just one mission failure. Its versatility has allowed it to deliver numerous payloads into both geostationary and lunar orbits, including the launch of the Akatsuki spacecraft, which was intended for Venus observations.
As the H-IIA program concludes, JAXA prepares to transition to the H3 rocket, designed to provide similar capabilities at a more economical price point. This shift represents an evolution in Japan’s space strategy, aiming to reduce costs while maintaining high performance in future launches.
The GOSAT-GW satellite is poised to play a crucial role in global efforts to address climate change and understand water cycles better. As environmental issues increasingly influence weather patterns and global ecosystems, data from GOSAT-GW will be invaluable for researchers and policymakers.
In an era where climate action is more critical than ever, Japan’s advancements in satellite technology exemplify a proactive approach to monitoring and mitigating environmental challenges on a global scale.