Japan’s JAXA successfully launched the new unmanned cargo transfer spacecraft HTV‑X1 aboard the H3 F7 rocket from the Tanegashima Space Center at 9:00:15 a.m. (JST) on October 26, 2025. The ascent proceeded nominally, and orbital separation of HTV‑X1 was confirmed approximately 14 minutes 4 seconds after liftoff, marking a clean deployment to orbit.
Mission overview
HTV‑X1 is JAXA’s next-generation cargo spacecraft, designed to support future logistics and technology demonstrations in low Earth orbit. Riding on the seventh flight of Japan’s H3 launch vehicle family, the mission advances the agency’s domestic launch cadence and cargo transportation capabilities.
The H3 F7 mission follows progressive build-up flights of the H3 system, with this launch focused on delivering the HTV‑X1 spacecraft to its initial orbit and enabling subsequent on-orbit checkout and operations led by JAXA.
Key launch milestones
- Liftoff from Tanegashima Space Center at 9:00:15 a.m. (JST), October 26, 2025.
- Nominal ascent and guidance through the planned trajectory.
- Confirmation of HTV‑X1 separation at T+14 minutes 04 seconds.
Why it matters
The successful delivery of HTV‑X1 to orbit demonstrates continued maturation of the H3 launch system and the operational debut of an upgraded cargo vehicle architecture. Together, these capabilities are intended to enhance Japan’s access to orbit and support future missions that require reliable cargo transport and technology validation.
What comes next
With separation confirmed, JAXA will conduct spacecraft health checks and proceed with planned mission activities in orbit. Additional updates are expected from the agency as on-orbit operations progress.
Source: JAXA press release
