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Japan Satellite Blasts Off on Rocket Lab
14 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Rocket Lab launched JAXA's RAISE-4 satellite from New Zealand.
- The satellite carries eight payloads to test advanced technologies.
- RAISE-4 was moved to Electron after Japan's Epsilon-S rocket was grounded.
A Rocket Lab Electron rocket successfully launched the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's RAISE-4 technology demonstration satellite on December 13th from New Zealand. The satellite, weighing 110 kilograms, was deployed into a 540-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit approximately 55 minutes after liftoff.
The RAISE-4 satellite is equipped with eight distinct payloads designed to test cutting-edge technologies, spanning propulsion, communications, and a drag sail for deorbiting. This mission was transferred to Rocket Lab's Electron vehicle after Japan's Epsilon-S rocket faced delays due to a launch failure and subsequent solid rocket motor issues.
Rocket Lab CEO Peter Beck expressed pride in supporting JAXA, emphasizing the dedicated access to space provided for Japan's growing aerospace economy. The mission, named 'RAISE And Shine,' proceeded amidst a reshuffling of Rocket Lab's launch manifest, with prior delays attributed to weather and pre-launch checks.
