主力火箭H2A退役，新火箭能否重塑日本竞争力？

Core Viewpoint - The successful launch of Japan's H2A rocket marks the end of its operational life, with implications for Japan's space ambitions, but the transition to the new H3 rocket is expected to mitigate the impact [1][3]. Group 1: H2A Rocket Launch and Retirement - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries successfully launched the H2A rocket for the 50th time, delivering the GOSAT-GW satellite into orbit [1][3]. - The H2A rocket has achieved a 98% success rate over its 50 missions since its first launch in 2001, with only one failure recorded [3]. - The H2A rocket will be officially retired, with the H3 rocket taking over its responsibilities for satellite launches [3]. Group 2: H3 Rocket and Future Prospects - The H3 rocket, which has a higher payload capacity and lower launch costs, is set to replace the H2A rocket, addressing Japan's need for competitive pricing in the international commercial launch market [4]. - The launch cost of the H3 rocket is approximately 5 billion yen (about 34.5 million USD), which is half the cost of the H2A rocket's launch price of around 10 billion yen (about 69 million USD) [4]. - The H3 rocket has successfully completed four consecutive launches after an initial failure in 2023, indicating improving reliability and performance for future missions [3].