NEW START, BIG START.

As the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency consolidates the nation's space activities, Japanese launch teams are looking for Delta IV-class program. In addition to a higher capacity version of the H-IIA, Japan's aeronautical establishment is intent on drawing from that exercise to develop an entirely new heavy-lift launch vehicle in the next decade. As yet unnamed, this "new generation" launch vehicle is expected to emerge 10% lighter than the 285-metric-ton H-IIA and, at 55 meters, 2 meters longer. As the region's longtime leader in space technology, Japan has developed the H-II family to fulfill that aim, even as Japanese scientists and industry cooperate with Europe and the U.S. on a variety of international programs.