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Japan Launches Michibiki 7; China's Long March 7A Explodes

8/11/2026

Summary

Japan Launches H3

Japan launched an H3 rocket No. 9 from Tanegashima on August 11, 2026, delivering Michibiki 7 into orbit.
The launch marked a consecutive H3 success after the December 2025 failure that lost Michibiki 5.
Michibiki 7 joins the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System, aiming for a seven-satellite regional positioning constellation.
The 4.9-metric-ton payload carries the U.S. Space Force’s Situational Awareness Camera Hosted Instrument (SACHI).
Launch was delayed from Friday to Monday by a typhoon, then to Tuesday for weather.

Summary

Long March 7A Explodes

A Long March 7A rocket carrying the ChinaSat-4B communications satellite detonated 85 seconds after liftoff from Wenchang on Aug 10, 2026.
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation said an engine malfunction during the main-stage burn likely caused the explosion.
The failure may postpone the Zhuque-3 launch from Jiuquan scheduled for Aug 10 p.m. EDT.
Chang’e-7, slated for a second-half-2026 launch on a Long March 5, remains unaffected.

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Japan Launches H3

Japan launched an H3 rocket No. 9 from Tanegashima on August 11, 2026, delivering Michibiki 7 into orbit.
The launch marked a consecutive H3 success after the December 2025 failure that lost Michibiki 5.
Michibiki 7 joins the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System, aiming for a seven-satellite regional positioning constellation.
The 4.9-metric-ton payload carries the U.S. Space Force’s Situational Awareness Camera Hosted Instrument (SACHI).
Launch was delayed from Friday to Monday by a typhoon, then to Tuesday for weather.

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