Ōsumi (satellite) facts for kids

The first Japanese satellite was named Ōsumi.

Ōsumi (also known as Ohsumi) was Japan's very first artificial satellite to be sent into orbit around Earth. It was named after Ōsumi Province, an area in Kagoshima Prefecture on the island of Kyūshū. This important satellite was launched on February 11, 1970.

Japan's Space Journey Begins

The launch of Ōsumi was a huge step for Japan in space exploration. It meant that Japan became the fourth country in the world to successfully send its own satellite into orbit. Before Ōsumi, only the Soviet Union, the United States, and France had achieved this amazing feat.

Who Launched Ōsumi?

The project to launch Ōsumi was led by the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science. This group was part of the University of Tokyo, a well-known university in Japan. Their hard work and scientific knowledge made Japan's first satellite launch possible.

What Happened to Ōsumi?

Ōsumi stayed in orbit for a short time. It was designed to test Japan's rocket technology and show that the country could launch its own satellites. Even though it didn't stay in space for a long time, its launch was a major success and opened the door for many more Japanese space missions.

• Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Ohsumi mission profile