The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has set a new launch time for the H3 F7 mission carrying the HTV-X1 uncrewed cargo spacecraft to the International Space Station. Liftoff is targeted for October 26, 2025 at 09:00:15 Japan Standard Time (JST), which corresponds to 00:00:15 Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). The mission will depart from the Yoshinobu Launch Complex at JAXA’s Tanegashima Space Center.
Rescheduled timeline and coordination
According to JAXA, a reserved launch period has been set for October 27 through November 30, 2025. Launch opportunities within this window will be determined through international coordination to align with ISS operations. The schedule remains subject to operational requirements and final approval by mission partners.
Mission overview
HTV-X1 is an uncrewed cargo transfer spacecraft intended to support ISS logistics. The H3 F7 flight marks the seventh mission of Japan’s H3 launch vehicle series, tasked with placing the spacecraft on a trajectory to rendezvous with the orbital laboratory. The operation underscores Japan’s continuing role in ISS resupply and low Earth orbit logistics.
Key details
- Launch date: October 26, 2025
- Launch time: 09:00:15 JST (00:00:15 UTC)
- Launch vehicle: H3 Launch Vehicle (H3 F7)
- Payload: HTV-X1 uncrewed cargo transfer spacecraft
- Launch site: Yoshinobu Launch Complex, JAXA Tanegashima Space Center
- Reserved launch period: October 27–November 30, 2025 (timing coordinated for ISS operations)
What to watch next
JAXA indicates that launch timing within the reserved period will be finalized through ISS operational planning. Further updates are expected via official channels as the target date approaches.
