Japan launches QZSS-7 satellite with US Space Force sensor

Japan has successfully launched the QZSS-7 satellite via an H-3 rocket from Tanegashima, placing the final satellite of its Quasi-Zenith Satellite System constellation into geosynchronous orbit. The mission includes the deployment of a second US Space Force orbital sensor, developed by MIT Lincoln Laboratory and integrated by Mitsubishi Electric.

This deployment is part of a bilateral security cooperation agreement initiated in 2019. The sensors are designed for space domain awareness, providing persistent monitoring of orbital movements and potential threats above the Indo-Pacific region. The data collected will be fed into the US Space Surveillance Network to enhance situational awareness for both nations.