New Delhi: Japan just took a major step in global space leadership with the launch of its new HTV-X1 cargo spacecraft, and I have to admit, as someone who has followed space missions since school, this one actually gave me goosebumps. There is something about seeing a country push beyond old limits that feels personal. At 5:30 AM IST on October 26, the H3 rocket roared off the launchpad from Tanegashima Space Center, carrying the HTV-X1 into orbit. This is not just another delivery mission to the International Space Station. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in space logistics, technology testing, and Japan’s push toward lunar exploration.

The spacecraft will reach the ISS on October 30 at 9:20 PM IST, where Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui will manually capture it using the robotic arm. Just hours after launch, Yui posted, It successfully entered orbit I’ll make sure to grab it firmly with the robotic arm to meet everyone’s expectations. That single line didn’t just show excitement it revealed how important this mission is for Japan’s identity in space.

The HTV-X1 is a major upgrade over Japan’s older Kounotori cargo ships. Even though it is slightly shorter at 8 metres, it can carry nearly 6,000 kilograms of supplies, including food, research equipment and cold storage samples. It has a wider body and advanced refrigeration systems.

• Launch mass: about 16 tonnes
• Cargo capacity: 5.85 tonnes
• Battery and power systems upgraded for longer missions
• Capable of staying in orbit for up to 1.5 years after leaving ISS

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries explained, HTV-X enhances transportation capabilities and adds the capability to provide various users with on-orbit demonstration opportunities for up to 1.5 years after leaving ISS until reentry.

The HTV-X is designed to support not just the ISS, but also future lunar missions under NASA’s Artemis program. JAXA has proposed using the HTV-X to deliver cargo to Gateway, a small space station planned around the Moon.

The cargo craft travels at orbital velocity of 7.66 kilometres per second. That is around 27,576 kilometres per hour (27,576 kmph).

Ricoh SDX on HTV-X1| Source: JAXA

A fascinating part of this mission is the inclusion of next-generation solar panels developed by Ricoh. These perovskite solar cells have been attached to the spacecraft for testing in space.

Ricoh said the cells offer high power generation even at low illumination, strong resistance to cosmic rays, and potential for lightweight and flexible designs. These are exactly the kind of breakthroughs future satellite and lunar missions will need to cut down costs.

Perovskite cells will be tested for about two months in orbit, where their power performance and durability will be closely monitored.

Once captured and docked, the HTV-X1 will:

• Deliver food, clothing and research equipment
• Stay attached for up to six months
• Collect waste from ISS
• Detach and perform experimental missions for up to three more months

This flexible design could make it one of the most valuable spacecraft in orbit for technology demonstration.

The development cost is reported to be 35.6 billion yen. Converted, that is around 188.68 crore rupees. It shows Japan’s long-term strategy to remain relevant in the global space economy, and possibly play a starring role in lunar supply chains.