JAXA - Transfer Vehicle KOUNOTORI 3 (HTV3) patch.
July 28, 2012 (JST)
Artist view of the HTV approaching ISS
The H-II Transfer Vehicle "KOUNOTORI 3" (HTV3) started its final approach to the International Space Station (ISS), and was captured by the ISS robotic arm at 21:23 p.m. on July 27 (Japanese Standard Time, JST). After being maneuvered by the arm, the HTV3 was successfully berthed to the ISS at 2:31 a.m. on July 28 (JST).
KOUNOTORI2 (HTV-2) docking at the ISS
Upon berthed to the ISS, the internal and external cargo will be unloaded by the onboard crew.
Comment by JAXA President
Today, I am delighted to announce that the H-II Transfer Vehicle "KOUNOTORI 3" (HTV3), launched by the H-IIB launch vehicle on July 21, 2012 (Japanese Standard Time) from the JAXA Tanegashima Space Center, was successfully berthed to the International Space Station (ISS) at 2:31 a.m. on July 28, 2012.
Timelapse of HTV-3 Approach to ISS
We are pleased to report that Astronaut Hoshide, who has recently commenced the long-duration stay at the ISS, participated in this significant task. It was with immense pride and joy to witness the Japanese and American astronauts performing their fruits of the rigorous training to successfully berth the "KOUNOTORI 3 " to the ISS.
Timelapse of HTV-3 Berthing to ISS
This success marks a notable milestone in this mission. We will continue to strive to ensure the transfer of supplies, departure from the ISS, and re-entry into the atmosphere as planned.
Keiji Tachikawa, President, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
Reference Link: You can find out more detailed information on the following Web site: http://iss.jaxa.jp/en/htv/
Mission website:
KOUNOTORI3/H-IIB Launch Vehicle No. 3 Special Site: http://www.jaxa.jp/countdown/h2bf3/index_e.html
KOUNOTORI3 (HTV3) News (ISS / Kibo Site): http://iss.jaxa.jp/en/htv/mission/htv-3/news/
Images, Text, Credits: Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) / NASA / NASA TV.
Cheers, Orbiter.ch
