Japan launched optical and radar reconnaissance satellites by H2A booster from Tanegashima on 28 March, primarily to monitor North Korean missile activities. The 850kg (1,870lb) optical satellite, thought to have 1m (3.3ft) resolution, and a 1,200kg radar satellite were built by Mitsubishi Electric. The $2.05 billion programme includes two satellites for possible launch next year and four more up to 2009.
Source: Flight International