H-IIB

The H-IIB Launch Vehicle is Japan’s large-scale rocket whose launch capability is at the highest level in the world. It was successfully developed in a short period by making the best use of technologies acquired through the experience of the H-IIA Launch Vehicle to realize a low-cost and low-risk launch vehicle. The H-IIB Launch Vehicle No. 2 (H-IIB F2) is scheduled to be launched on January 20 (Thu.,) 2011 to inject its payload, the second H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV2) into its orbit.

The H-IIB Test Flight was launched exactly at the scheduled launch time and date on September 11, 2009, and that was the first punctual launch of the first flight of Japan’s major launch vehicles. The H-IIB TF then successfully injected the HTV1 (technological demonstration flight) in its planned orbit. The H-IIB/HTV launch won praise throughout the world including from NASA, and was highly evaluated for its international contribution. As the H-IIB/HTV launch will be the only means for large-size cargo transportation to the International Space Station after the scheduled retirement of the Space Shuttle, the H-IIB F2 will be launched with the high expectations of the world.