Launch Result, Epsilon-3 with ASNARO-2 aboard
January 18, 2018 (JST)
National Research and Development Agency
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
At 6:06:11 a.m. (Japan Standard Time) January 18, 2018, JAXA launched Epsilon-3, the third Epsilon launch vehicle which encapsulates NEC Small radar satellite "ASNARO-2", from the JAXA Uchinoura Space Center. The launch occurred on time.
The launch and flight of Epsilon-3 took place normally. Approximately 52 minutes 35 seconds into the flight, the separation of ASNARO-2 proceeded, with confirmation as successful.
JAXA expresses appreciation for the support by all.
Epsilon-3 Launch Sequence (Quick Review)
| Event | Actual value (Quick review) *1 |
|---|---|
| 1. Liftoff | 0 min. 0 sec. |
| 2. First stage solid motor burnout *2 | 1 min. 48 sec. |
| 3. Payload fairing separation | 2 min. 31 sec. |
| 4. First and second stages separation | 2 min. 41 sec. |
| 5. Second stage solid motor ignition *3 | 2 min. 45 sec. |
| 6. Second stage solid motor burnout *2 | 4 min. 54 sec. |
| 7. Second and Third stages separation | 6 min. 30 sec. |
| 8. Third stage solid motor ignition *3 | 6 min. 34 sec. |
| 9. Third stage solid motor burnout *2 | 8 min. 5 sec. |
| 10. PBS*3 Separation from Epsilon third stage | 9 min. 54 sec. |
| 11. PBS first ignition *4 | |
| 12. PBS first burnout | 20 min. 30 sec. |
| 13. PBS second ignition *4 | |
| 14. PBS second burnout | 50 min. 17 sec. |
| 15. ASNARO-2 separation | 52 min. 35 sec. |
*1 Preliminary value prior to data validation
*2 Determined by the chamber combustion pressure drop to 5% level of the max.
*3 PBS: Post Boost Stage
*4 Data not available
For more information regarding Epsilon-3 and ASNARO-2, go to:
https://jaxa.eu.org/projects/rockets/epsilon/index.html