Launches
Hokkaido Spaceport (HOSPO):
A commercial spaceport in Asia that’s open to all who aspire to reach space
Operated by Taiki Town and SPACE COTAN Co., Ltd., Hokkaido Spaceport (HOSPO) is a commercial spaceport open to the private sector. HOSPO supports the launch of various space transportation systems, including rockets, spaceplanes, and balloons.
Advantages
Strengths of Hokkaido Spaceport (HOSPO)
HOSPO has significant geographical advantages as one of the world’s leading spaceports, thanks to its openness to the sea for rocket launches eastward and southward, its vast land that allows for the development of additional facilities, and its favorable weather conditions.
Featuring openness to the sea to the east and south, allowing for a wide range of orbital inclinations and access to various orbits
Boasting vast land that allows for the development of additional facilities, such as rocket launch sites
Being located in the northernmost part of Japan, where less trafficked sea and air routes facilitate efficient launch operations
Enjoying a high rate of clear skies, which provides favorable weather conditions for launches
Offering excellent access for people, rockets, satellites, and other materials due to its proximity to an airport and an international port
Providing a comfortable stay with Hokkaido’s rich culinary offerings, hot springs, and natural beauty
Having nearly 40 years of history in space-focused community development and a proven track record as Japan’s third rocket launch complex
Service
HOSPO offers an array of services to support the experiments
and launches of vertical-launch rockets and spaceplanes.
All the Launches You Need
HOSPO has a full range of facilities to provide comprehensive support for everything from experiments to launches of orbital and suborbital vertical launch vehicles and spaceplanes. Our facilities include launch pads, command centers, assembly buildings, satellite preparation rooms, a runway, and engine firing test facilities.
Supplies
HOSPO procures and provides essential supplies for your rockets and spaceplanes, including CH4 (LNG), LOX, GHe, LN2, GN2, GOX, water, and power sources.
Reliable Launch Support
HOSPO provides consulting services on space activity laws and import/export regulations, as well as essential environmental information required for launches. The information provided includes meteorological data; information on ground conditions (temperature, relative humidity, wind direction, and wind speed), upper atmospheric conditions (temperature, relative humidity, wind direction, and wind speed), and sea and air routes; and localized weather forecasts and lightning predictions.
Orbits
Orbits Accessible from HOSPO
HOSPO, located at 42.30°N latitude by 143.26°E longitude, enables a broad spectrum of orbital inclinations ranging from 42° to 98°. The spaceport’s location also supports launches into sun-synchronous orbits.
