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].

Core Viewpoint - The H2A rocket successfully completed its 50th and final launch, marking the end of its operational life, and successfully deployed the Earth observation satellite "Breath GW" into orbit [1][2] Group 1: H2A Rocket Details - The H2A rocket is a two-stage liquid-fueled rocket, measuring 53 meters in length, with a weight of 289 tons when equipped with two solid boosters [1] - It has a geostationary transfer orbit payload capacity of approximately 4 tons and a low Earth orbit capacity of up to 10 tons [1] - Since its first launch in 2001, the H2A rocket has conducted 50 missions, with only one failure, but each launch costs around 10 billion yen (approximately 69 million USD), which has limited its competitiveness in the international commercial launch market [1] Group 2: "Breath GW" Satellite - The "Breath GW" satellite, developed by Japan's Ministry of the Environment and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, is designed for global greenhouse gas and water cycle observation [2] - It features a high-performance microwave radiometer that adds two observation frequency bands, enhancing the resolution of existing bands, enabling the observation of snowfall and precipitation in high-latitude regions [2] - The satellite is equipped with a greenhouse gas emission mapping spectrometer that can observe carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrogen dioxide with greater range and precision [2] Group 3: Future Developments - The H2A rocket will be succeeded by the H3 rocket, which offers greater payload capacity and lower costs [1]