The IGS-Optical satellite series are semi-classified satellites operated by the Cabinet Satellite Information Center of Japan.

They are used for military reconnaissance operations as well as civilian natural disaster monitoring.

The IGS-Optical third generation of satellites have a reported resolution capability better than 40 centimeters (1.3 ft)

The H-IIA Launch Vehicle is a high-performance Japanese rocket consisting of a first stage, second stage, payload fairing, and either two or four Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB-A). The propulsion system uses liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen as propellants. Two models are in operation: the H-IIA 202 with two SRB-As and the H-IIA 204 with four SRB-As.

Specs
Height: 53 m (174 ft)

Diameter: 4 m (13 ft)

Mass: 285,000–445,000 kg (628,000–981,000 lb)

Stages: 2

The first stage is powered by the high-performance LE-7A engine and includes an engine section, cryogenic propellant tanks, a center fuselage, and an interstage connecting it to the second stage. SRB-As, developed to enhance lift-off thrust, are mounted on the first stage depending on mission needs.

The second stage uses the reliable LE-5B engine and features its own cryogenic tanks, avionics, and other systems. A key capability of the LE-5B is that it can be restarted up to three times, allowing for precise orbital insertions during complex missions.

Courtesy of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

LA-Y1 is a launch pad at Japan’s Tanegashima Space Center, specifically located within the Yoshinobu Launch Complex. It serves as the primary launch site for Japan’s H-II and H-IIA rockets, which are used for deploying satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO) and geostationary transfer orbit (GTO).

The Yoshinobu Launch Complex, which includes both LA-Y1 and the adjacent LA-Y2 pad, is situated on the northern side of Tanegashima Space Center. Rockets are assembled vertically in the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) before being transported to the launch pad on a mobile platform. The journey from the VAB to LA-Y1 takes approximately 30 minutes.

LA-Y1 has been operational since its first launch in February 1994 and has hosted numerous missions, including the deployment of Japan’s Akatsuki and Hayabusa2 missions, as well as the Emirates Mars Mission. The pad is equipped to handle the H-IIA's first-stage engine, the LE-7A, and is supported by facilities such as the Takesaki Range Control Center, which manages launch operations and tracking.

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.