The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency launched an H-2A booster from Tanegashima on 24 January, carrying the ALOS Advanced Land Observation Satellite into a Sun-synchronous orbit. The LE-7A cryogenic upper-stage engine was the first with an extended nozzle, to increase thrust and efficiency. The launch was the seventh success for an H-2A since the maiden test in 2001.
Source: Flight International