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Launch Postponement of the First Quasi-Zenith Satellite 'MICHIBIKI' by H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 18

June 23, 2010 (JST)

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) decided to postpone the launch of the first Quasi-Zenith Satellite “MICHIBIKI” by the H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 18 (H-IIA F18) from the Tanegashima Space Center, which was originally scheduled for August 2, 2010.

The new launch date will be announced as soon as it is determined.

(Reason for launch delay)
JAXA found a potential concern in the onboard reaction wheels of the MICHIBIKI following notification from an overseas manufacturer. It may take some time to clear up the potential concern for the manufacturer by assessing test data. Therefore, we determined that it is better to replace the parts with new ones in order to be able to launch the MICHIBIKI as soon as possible while securing the quality and reliability of the satellite.