Kiku 1

Launch Success

Liftoff Time (GMT)

05:30:00

Tuesday September 9, 1975

Mission Details

Launch Notes

First flight of N-I.

Kiku 1

Wiki

Japanese Engineering Test Satellite (ETS), also called Kiku 1, was a short octagonal right prism with two octagonal pyramids terminating at either end of the prism. Both pyramids were truncated with a small end plate. The satellite was approximately 90 cm in height and diameter. All faces other than the end plates were covered with solar cells. Several antennas and sensors extended from the spacecraft. The objectives of this satellite launch were to confirm launching technology, develop satellite tracking and controlling technology, and carry out other technological experiments and procedures. Initial satellite operation, including attitude control and extension of four very long antennas, was nominal.

Low Earth Orbit

1 Payload

85 kilograms

Rocket

Retired
N-I

Active 1975 to 1982

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries logo

Agency

MHI

Rocket

Height: 34m

Payload to Orbit

LEO: 1,200 kg

GTO: 360 kg

Stages

2

Strap-ons

3

Launch Site

LA-Y1

Tanegashima Space Center, Japan

Fastest Turnaround

25 days 4 hours

Stats

N-I


1st

Mission

1st

Mission of 1975

1975


86th

Orbital launch attempt