JAXA launches HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft to the ISS aboard an H3 rocket, delivering 5.8 tons of supplies and experiments — a milestone in Japan’s space logistics.
TheInterviewTimes.com | TANEGASHIMA SPACE CENTER, Japan | October 26, 2025— Japan’s space agency, JAXA, successfully launched the next-generation HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS) at 9:00 a.m. Japan Standard Time (00:00 UTC). The new HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft lifted off from the Yoshinobu Launch Complex aboard an H3-24L rocket and entered its planned preliminary orbit after upper-stage separation.
Within minutes of separation, mission control confirmed the HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft deployed its solar arrays and established stable communications, signalling a nominal start to the mission.
A next-generation resupply vehicle
The HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft is the operational debut of JAXA’s HTV-X series, designed to replace the retired Kounotori (HTV) vehicles. The HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft features a modular cargo section, higher power generation capacity and streamlined ground operations that reduce cargo loading time from 80 hours to roughly 24 hours.
Carrying approximately 5.8 metric tons, the HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft manifest includes food, water, crew supplies, spare parts and scientific experiment hardware — notably components for the iROSA (ISS Roll-Out Solar Array) upgrade plus life science and fluid physics experiment kits destined for microgravity research.
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H3 rocket performance and launch profile
The H3-24L rocket, developed by JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, flew in its most powerful configuration with two solid rocket boosters. This marked the seventh H3 flight and the fourth consecutive success after an initial setback in 2023. The original launch attempt on Oct. 21 was postponed due to upper-level winds; a 48-hour weather review cleared the vehicle for liftoff on Oct. 26.
Approach, capture and planned operations
Over the coming days, the HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft will conduct a series of orbital maneuvers before the approach to the ISS. Capture by Canadarm2, to be operated by Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui, is targeted for early November 2025. The HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft is expected to remain berthed to the station for up to six months, supporting maintenance, resupply and ongoing experiments.
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Program outlook and lunar adaptation potential
Under the existing partnership with NASA, JAXA has contracted additional HTV-X missions through 2029. Engineers are also studying how the HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft architecture might be adapted for future lunar cargo delivery in support of NASA’s Artemis program, potentially extending Japan’s logistics capabilities beyond low-Earth orbit.
International cooperation and mission broadcast
Live coverage from JAXA and NHK provided real-time telemetry showing nominal performance of both the H3 rocket and the HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft during ascent. The successful HTV-X1 mission cements Japan’s position as a reliable contributor to international space logistics and scientific cooperation aboard the ISS.
In summary, the HTV-X1 Cargo Spacecraft launch marks a pivotal step in modernizing Japan’s resupply capability and opens possibilities for future lunar logistics using the same modular platform.