Redesigned HTV : HTV-X

[Fuji]

MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) announced redesigned HTV concept for 50% cost reduction.
This version will be introduced started from HTV10.

http://mainichi.jp/select/news/20150520k0000e040188000c.html　

[Galactic Penguin SST]

If my (very bad) understanding of Japanese is correct, they are looking at cutting the cost by about 100 billion yen (~$US 82m) and lighten the spacecraft up by 30%, is that correct?

[baldusi]

This would be launched on an H-2A-204?

[russianhalo117]

MEXT(Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) announced redesigned HTV concept for 50% cost reduction.
This version will be introduced started from HTV10.

http://mainichi.jp/select/news/20150520k0000e040188000c.html　

Link now gives an Error 404 Message. Can you find the new link please.

[russianhalo117]

This would be launched on an H-2A-204?

There are H2B's in bulk order that go past HTV-9 these might be left over from now shelved HTV-R programme. There is/was a plan to flyout H-IIB and and transition  over to H-III (H-X). I dont have a config for that plan.

[Pipcard]

There is a 404 error because the link has an extra space at the end.

Here is a proper link.

Notice what appears to be a unpressurized trunk in the rear, and how they are planning to change from solar panels wrapped around cylindrical body to folding solar paddles (while SpaceX is planning to do the opposite for their Dragon V2), which seem to have a lot more surface area.

[Fuji]

If my (very bad) understanding of Japanese is correct, they are looking at cutting the cost by about 100 billion yen (~$US 82m) and lighten the spacecraft up by 30%, is that correct?

That' right

Usually, MEXT's meeting presentation documents are released one or two weeks later.
I will post here at that time.

[Ronsmytheiii]

Here is a larger image of the HTV V2:

Also, seems to me to be a remodel more like a Cygnus with unpressurized cargo now on the SM. Guessing it uses more commercial satellite components, plus ditching the unpressurized section saves weight so it can launch on the H-2

http://uchu2ch.blog.jp/archives/31003426.html

[Fuji]

Official document.  Useful information are not so many.
Avionics Module and Propulsion Module are integrated in a Service  Module.

http://www.mext.go.jp/b_menu/shingi/gijyutu/gijyutu2/071/shiryo/__icsFiles/afieldfile/2015/05/28/1358152_1.pdf

[russianhalo117]

Official document.  Useful information are not so many.
Avionics Module and Propulsion Module are integrated in a Service  Module.

http://www.mext.go.jp/b_menu/shingi/gijyutu/gijyutu2/071/shiryo/__icsFiles/afieldfile/2015/05/28/1358152_1.pdf

Forwarded to Chris Bergin for a future HTV Article around the time of next HTV launch. All Future documents and info please pass along to Chris. the more info we give him the better the article.

[Patchouli]

If the payload is not too significantly reduced the cost could be competitive with the US commercial cargo carriers.
Spacex would still beat them and possibly SNC as well.

[Fuji]

This redsigned HTV is now called HTV-X.

[Ronsmytheiii]

New presentation goes into more detail:

http://www.mext.go.jp/b_menu/shingi/gijyutu/gijyutu2/059/shiryo/__icsFiles/afieldfile/2015/07/16/1359656_5.pdf

[russianhalo117]

New presentation goes into more detail:

http://www.mext.go.jp/b_menu/shingi/gijyutu/gijyutu2/059/shiryo/__icsFiles/afieldfile/2015/07/16/1359656_5.pdf

I showed Chris and we could use an English translation whenever possible from anyone who can

[Danderman]

First one is scheduled to fly in 2021. With the normal delays, that would probably be 2025.

[yoichi]

http://www.jaxa.jp/press/2016/07/20160714_htv-x_j.html
The development status of the HTV-X
http://www.jaxa.jp/press/2016/07/files/20160714_htv-x_01_j.pdf
(685KB/Japanese)

[Galactic Penguin SST]

The design of HTV-X seems to have somewhat evolved (now back to near current HTV sized instead of the original lighter design). Here is the PDR presentation a week ago (targeting first flight in 2021) (in Japanese): http://www.jaxa.jp/press/2017/12/files/20171206_HTV-X.pdf

[JEF_300]

I apologize for resurrecting this thread if there's a better one, but I couldn't find any.

The new article on the ISS schedule mentions that the first HTV-X launch will be in February of 2022.
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2019/06/station-planning-new-crew-launch-dates/

Do we know what the current design of HTV-X is?

[russianhalo117]

I apologize for resurrecting this thread if there's a better one, but I couldn't find any.

The new article on the ISS schedule mentions that the first HTV-X launch will be in February of 2022.
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2019/06/station-planning-new-crew-launch-dates/

Do we know what the current design of HTV-X is?

Yes. Look at the previous post.

[vp.]

[Steven Pietrobon]

Looks like a more mass efficient design. The main propulsion thrusters have been deleted with all attitude thrusters consolidated to the service module. Thrusters are offset from the main body (looks like at 45 degrees). If the thrusters are pointing to the centre of mass, then can still get full efficiency.

[Asteroza]

Certainly, having an upside down config means they can also utilize some of the space in the top cone of a payload fairing to maximize unpressurized cargo volume, plus the mount is an easy flat plate to work with. The solar panels being close to the thruster packs at first glance seems problematic, but it looks like the nozzle orientations mitigate that mostly.

[JEF_300]

If I'm following the timeline correctly here, in 2015, this was the design:



And in 2017, this was the design.



Is your image an up to date representation?

[russianhalo117]

If I'm following the timeline correctly here, in 2015, this was the design:



And in 2017, this was the design.



Is your image an up to date representation?

Image 3 title shows October 15 2016 as original date.

[Tywin]

I hope we see a future version for the Gateway station...and manned HTV one day...

[brickmack]

I hope we see a future version for the Gateway station...and manned HTV one day...

HTV-X will support Gateway flights, both as a cargo vehicle and possibly module tug (was at one point proposed as the delivery vehicle for ESPRIT, with launch on either Falcon Heavy or Ariane 6). Design changes for this seem to be relatively minimal. Manned HTV seems to be off the table now, but there were plenty of older studies on the subject (and manned ATV) that might interest you

[yoichi]

press conference


https://fanfun.jaxa.jp/jaxatv/files/20191031_htv-x.pdf

[TrevorMonty]

Translation would be useful.

[lucspace]

Translation using Google

[russianhalo117]

JAXA 2020 HTV-X CGI Animation:

[Steven Pietrobon]

Some screen grabs.

[Welsh Dragon]

Any ideas about the V-shaped solar panel arrangement? To provide better clearance for berthing manoeuvres?

[JEF_300]

Any ideas about the V-shaped solar panel arrangement? To provide better clearance for berthing manoeuvres?

Bumping this, since I've been wondering about this myself.
Whatever the reason, the slanted panels do look very, very good.

[TorenAltair]

Any ideas about the V-shaped solar panel arrangement? To provide better clearance for berthing manoeuvres?

Better clearance might be one reason. Another reason might be available power. Once docked, the panels can‘t follow the sun any longer. With this arrangement, it might generate more energy iterated over one orbit although reducing peak power. The panels shouldn‘t be shaded as much as straight ones by the station as well.

Edit: typo

[Olaf]

https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-tv-to-air-launch-capture-of-cargo-ship-to-international-space-station

JAXA is developing a new class of HTV vehicles that will provide a reusable pressurized cargo section

That is really new. How will this work?

The new HTV-X vehicles will dock automatically to the station’s International Docking Adapters with the first flight scheduled in 2022.

[whitelancer64]

https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-tv-to-air-launch-capture-of-cargo-ship-to-international-space-station

JAXA is developing a new class of HTV vehicles that will provide a reusable pressurized cargo section

That is really new. How will this work?

The new HTV-X vehicles will dock automatically to the station’s International Docking Adapters with the first flight scheduled in 2022.

The pressurized section would have a heatshield and would separate from the rest of the HTV to be recovered, like Cargo Dragon. The idea is not new, it has been kicked around for at least a decade, however, I was under the impression that it had been set aside, in favor of a lighter, not-reusable pressurized section.

It may be an error on the part of the author of the article.

[russianhalo117]

https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-tv-to-air-launch-capture-of-cargo-ship-to-international-space-station

JAXA is developing a new class of HTV vehicles that will provide a reusable pressurized cargo section

That is really new. How will this work?

The new HTV-X vehicles will dock automatically to the station’s International Docking Adapters with the first flight scheduled in 2022.

The pressurized section would have a heatshield and would separate from the rest of the HTV to be recovered, like Cargo Dragon. The idea is not new, it has been kicked around for at least a decade, however, I was under the impression that it had been set aside, in favor of a lighter, not-reusable pressurized section.

It may be an error on the part of the author of the article.

The use of IDA doesn't match the 2020 JAXA animations and information for HTV-X1. The manufacturer documentation has a primary PLC with a PCBM. The Service Module has a pass thru tunnel to an optional/experimental secondary PLC which has an IDSS docking system which is exposed when removing the optionally releasable ULC (EP). It prohibits flying external cargo on one side of the ULC.
When the pass thru tunnel is not used it is filled with additional tube cylindrical commodity tanks. There is no public date and assigned mission (NET HTV-X3) to fly the experimental JAXA IDSS docking system which is to be tested at ISS and is part of their international logistics, module, crew/science transfer vehicle gateway contribution proposals/plans.

NSF as echoed in the past could request newer information when feasible. The gateway info is also found in the H-3 upgrades posts.

https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=37623.msg2010006#msg2010006

https://spacenews.com/mitsubishi-heavy-industries-mulls-upgraded-h3-rocket-variants-for-lunar-missions/

[nacnud]

JAXA is developing a new class of HTV vehicles that will provide a reusable pressurized cargo section

That is really new. How will this work?

Is it a mistake in translation? Wikipedia says HTV-X has the same pressurised cargo section as HTV so maybe it should say reused (as in the design) rather than reusable?

[russianhalo117]

JAXA is developing a new class of HTV vehicles that will provide a reusable pressurized cargo section

That is really new. How will this work?

Is it a mistake in translation? Wikipedia says HTV-X has the same pressurised cargo section as HTV so maybe it should say reused (as in the design) rather than reusable?

It is similar in dimensions but longer also 2 internal configurations (current CBM sized rack and pallet system and IDSS sized cargo configuration for later ISS and gateway flights) refer to my previous posts first link.

[soltasto]

I might have understood from the NASA live stream that is covering the berthing of HTV-9 that the next HTV flight, which will be an HTV-X, will dock to the ISS. Can anyone confirm?

[russianhalo117]

I might have understood from the NASA live stream that is covering the berthing of HTV-9 that the next HTV flight, which will be an HTV-X, will dock to the ISS. Can anyone confirm?

Per JAXA and MHI HTV-X1 animations and information it will be berthed initially.
https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=37623.msg2010006#msg2010006

[soltasto]

I might have understood from the NASA live stream that is covering the berthing of HTV-9 that the next HTV flight, which will be an HTV-X, will dock to the ISS. Can anyone confirm?

Per JAXA and MHI HTV-X1 animations and information it will be berthed initially.
https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=37623.msg2010006#msg2010006

Found a replay of the stream:

This is the final flight of a berthing HTV, the next generation of HTVs spacecraft will be HTV-X with the ability to dock to the international space station heading to the international docking adapters that are located on the forward end of the international space station.

So they either changed their mind and pulled forward the docking HTV-X or the NASA PAO was given incorrect information.

[russianhalo117]

I might have understood from the NASA live stream that is covering the berthing of HTV-9 that the next HTV flight, which will be an HTV-X, will dock to the ISS. Can anyone confirm?

Per JAXA and MHI HTV-X1 animations and information it will be berthed initially.
https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=37623.msg2010006#msg2010006

Found a replay of the stream:

This is the final flight of a berthing HTV, the next generation of HTVs spacecraft will be HTV-X with the ability to dock to the international space station heading to the international docking adapters that are located on the forward end of the international space station.

So they either changed their mind and pulled forward the docking HTV-X or the NASA PAO was given incorrect information.

The JAXA webcasts and other 2020 documentation showed HTV-X1 and mentioned HTV-X2 berthing and HTV-X3 not flying unpressurized cargo and berthing initially until its primary mission was completed then being unberthed going outside KOS then flipping around performing an experimental docking. The launch webcast only showed the active docking system minus a hatch although older documentation shows a tunnel through the SM to a second hatch in PLC bulkhead opposite of the PCBM hatch and perpendicular to the PLC's late load cargo side hatch for use after encapsulation by the PLF. For Gateway the HTV-X evolve into a tug system with PLC resupply modules, ULC pallets, propellant and gasses resupply modules, and the SM all having two active IDSS docking systems (SM tug confirmed both active). Upon return to earth the SM tug enters an elliptical orbit and first refuels as needed then loiters until its cargo arrives. One can module can dock to either end of the tug (can be either matched or mixed pairs). Then then it performs its transfer burns. It is a case of rinse and repeat.

[Ronsmytheiii]

Looks like HTV-X may be used to supply the Artemis Gateway:

http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201908260031.html

In a vital lifeline for a next-generation lunar orbiting space station, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) plans to develop a larger unmanned transport spacecraft to ferry supplies.

For the development, the science ministry will earmark about 10.8 billion yen ($102 million) in its budget request for fiscal 2020, sources said.

The new spacecraft is expected to have a larger transport capacity than the unmanned supply ship, H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV), also called Kounotori (stork), which is currently transporting goods to the International Space Station (ISS).

[MATTBLAK]

Will the H-III rocket have enough delta-v to get an HTV-X out to the Gateway orbit?

[russianhalo117]

Will the H-III rocket have enough delta-v to get an HTV-X out to the Gateway orbit?

Their is a planned H-III upgrade path. See above thread and the H-III threads.

[ncb1397]

Will the H-III rocket have enough delta-v to get an HTV-X out to the Gateway orbit?

Yes, sort of. It requires 2 launches and earth orbit rendezvous.

[MATTBLAK]

Excellent - that's what should be done with Vulcan-Centaur and Falcon Heavy for crewed launches. But that's another story for another thread...

[Zed_Noir]

Will the H-III rocket have enough delta-v to get an HTV-X out to the Gateway orbit?

JAXA could just lofted a heavily laden HTV-X to LEO and hitched a ride with a SX Moonship. Just like the original Constellation concept of the Orion riding on the Altair lander.

It will be a lot cheaper and quicker than uprating the H-III or developed a new transfer stage. Maybe even Maezawa-San's old ride.

[JEF_300]

I've attached the image I've seen of possible H3 upgrades for lunar missions, which is from this SpaceNews article:
https://spacenews.com/mitsubishi-heavy-industries-mulls-upgraded-h3-rocket-variants-for-lunar-missions/

I would note that the article says they could conduct the dual launch mission by 2025/2026. So this isn't a super near term thing.

That was apparently still under consideration in March, according to the last line of this article:
https://spacenews.com/mhi-pressing-through-pandemic-toward-late-2020-h3-rocket-debut/

[Zed_Noir]

I've attached the image I've seen of possible H3 upgrades for lunar missions, which is from this SpaceNews article:
https://spacenews.com/mitsubishi-heavy-industries-mulls-upgraded-h3-rocket-variants-for-lunar-missions/

I would note that the article says they could conduct the dual launch mission by 2025/2026. So this isn't a super near term thing.
<snip>

I remember that news article.

The key points are the lift capacity of 28.3 tonnes to LEO with the tri-core H-III Heavy variant by 2030. Which is only about 6 tonnes more than an expended Falcon 9.

Also the proposed development timeline of having all the hardware needed to go to the Gateway by 2026 is quite optimistic, IMO.

[sdsds]

Note in the Japanese launch thread Fuji has the first launch of H-3 in JFY 2020, which ends March 31, 2021. So we'll soon have a better read on the possible timeline for launching HTV-X. I'm particularly hopeful about the distributed launch mission architecture!

[...]
JFY 2020 - H-3 TF1 - ALOS-3 advanced optical earth observation satellite "先進光学衛星"

[SMS]

New site about HTV-X: https://iss.jaxa.jp/htv-x/ (only in Japanese).

SPECIFICATIONS

Specifications of HTV-X currently under development

full length
    About 8.0 m
    (including heat shield wall)

Diameter
    About 4.4 m

Mass at launch
    About 16.0 tons

Supply Ability: Pressurized Cargo
    Up to 4.07 tons

Supply Ability: Exposed Cargo
    Up to 1.75 tons

Orbit: altitude
    300-500 km

Orbit: Orbit inclination angle
    About 51.6 degrees

Mission period:
ISS mooring period
    Up to 6 months

Mission period:
Flight ability after leaving the ISS
    Up to 1.5 years
    (technology demonstration mission period)

[Skyrocket]

New site about HTV-X: https://iss.jaxa.jp/htv-x/ (only in Japanese).

If i get it right from the Google translation, the HTV-X is named "Kotonotori"

[Welsh Dragon]

New site about HTV-X: https://iss.jaxa.jp/htv-x/ (only in Japanese).

If i get it right from the Google translation, the HTV-X is named "Kotonotori"

HTV was named that already. It's not new for HTV-X

[zubenelgenubi]

New site about HTV-X: https://iss.jaxa.jp/htv-x/ (only in Japanese).

If i get it right from the Google translation, the HTV-X is named "Kotonotori"

HTV was named that already. It's not new for HTV-X

Via Google translate, does kounotori = kotonotori ?

[Bean Kenobi]

New site about HTV-X: https://iss.jaxa.jp/htv-x/ (only in Japanese).

If i get it right from the Google translation, the HTV-X is named "Kotonotori"

HTV was named that already. It's not new for HTV-X

HTV was named "Kounotori", not the same name apparently.

[Parker Huntington]

New site about HTV-X: https://iss.jaxa.jp/htv-x/ (only in Japanese).

If i get it right from the Google translation, the HTV-X is named "Kotonotori"

HTV was named that already. It's not new for HTV-X

HTV was named "Kounotori", not the same name apparently.

Unless Skyrocket got it from somewhere else, I think that is a typo. The JAXA website (https://iss.jaxa.jp/htv-x/) says right under HTV-X "は宇宙ステーション補給機「こうのとり」（HTV）の意志を受け継ぐ次世代の無人補給船です". Google translate spits out "Konotori" for 「こうのとり」, however the more standard romanization would be "Kounotori". I looks to me like an extra "to" got added in there by accident. Maybe even someone mistyped 「ことのとり」somewhere. Also, Kounotori comes from stork I think, but I don't think kotonotori means anything. That said, one of the forum members in Japan probably has a better answer to this.

[yg1968]

See below:

Japan will invest $760 million into the Artemis program in the coming fiscal year. This is a solid investment, and will make it more difficult for the program to be politically unwound.

https://twitter.com/SciGuySpace/status/1309153731175419911

The cost for developing the HTV-X cargo ship, which would deliver supplies to a new space station planned to orbit the moon, is the highest-priced item, landing at more than 60 billion yen, according to the proposed budget. That in itself is a significant increase from the 7.5 billion yen approved for the current fiscal year.

http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/13756702

[SMS]

https://twitter.com/ansur_nied/status/1310191098434732033

[Olaf]

https://twitter.com/HTVX_JAXA/status/1321637010411462661
Google translation

SpaceBD Co., Ltd. is a company that integrates onboard satellites in the microsatellite release mission performed by HTV-X1. @spacebd_inc In this mission, the free flight capability of #HTVX with adjustable altitude and phase will bring out new demand for microsatellite emission!

https://iss.jaxa.jp/htv-x/news/cargo/201029.html
Google translation

The first H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV-X) will carry out a microsatellite (Cubesat) release mission in the technology demonstration mission phase after the departure from the International Space Station (ISS).
In this mission, a public offering was conducted from June 30, 2020 for companies that cultivate satellite users to be installed, select release satellites, and perform user integration required for release.
We are pleased to inform you that Space BD Co., Ltd. has been selected and a contract has been concluded.

In this mission, it is possible to extend the operating period of microsatellite and apply it to practical use missions by emitting satellites from higher altitudes than the ISS,

[edzieba]

That's a really neat capability. If the whole Lunar Gateway thing progresses, that could give the gateway-resupply HTV-X the ability to deliver microsatellite into or close to Lunar orbit! Great for telecoms relays or single-instrument mapping missions.

[vaporcobra]

Some great renders.

https://twitter.com/HTVX_JAXA/status/1342304678697046017

[Josh_from_Canada]

New video released

[Rondaz]

We conducted a pressure resistance / leakage test for the HTV-X Unit 1 pressurization module! The pressurized module astronauts enter during ISS mooring withstand the pressure difference between the vacuum of space, it will be required to hold the air Balloonin the test, pressurized sealed gas inside, deformation or gas Leakage was measured.

https://twitter.com/HTVX_JAXA/status/1405798215832662019

[Rondaz]

The JAXA HTV Technology Center, which has been responsible for the development and operation of "Stork", has played all roles and has been disbanded. And from July 1st, the "Automatic Docking Technology Demonstration Project Team" was launched with the aim of demonstrating with HTV-X2. Thank you for your continued support!

https://twitter.com/HTVX_JAXA/status/1413041193127014403

[Rondaz]

Space BD Co., Ltd., which was selected as a company to select satellites and make various adjustments in the microsatellite release mission scheduled to be carried out on HTV-X1.@spacebd_inc ) Has entered into a business alliance regarding this mission, Nihon University College of Science and Technology (@NihonUniv_CST ) Was signed!

https://twitter.com/HTVX_JAXA/status/1423463132370923522

[Yiosie]

JAXA has released the HTV-X1 mission patch (clean version attached).

https://twitter.com/HTVX_JAXA/status/1432918513673404427

The mission mark for HTV-X has been decided! Inheriting the history of that completed all missions, it expresses the appearance of HTV-X heading to the ISS and the moon. Did you notice the implications of the detailed design? The correct answer is https://humans-in-space.jaxa.jp/htv-x/news/project/210901.html Please refer to the!

[jacqmans]

[eeergo]

Some slides showing the mission profiles for HTV-X1 and the HTV-X2 docking demonstration!

[eeergo]

https://twitter.com/Astro_Satoshi/status/1544590567950385152

[Steven Pietrobon]

Translation and photo.

"Shots with all participants. The gold color in the back is the first HTV-X. Thank you all and congratulations on your hard work!"

[Zed_Noir]

Who is building the docking port for HTV-X2?

[Timber Micka]

Who is building the docking port for HTV-X2?

Likely Boeing. They designed the National Docking System and they already provide the Common Berthing Mechanism for the HTV.

[Robotbeat]

Who is building the docking port for HTV-X2?

Likely Boeing. They designed the National Docking System and they already provide the Common Berthing Mechanism for the HTV.

It’s not hard to build one. SpaceX made one. The Russians actually made the original APAS adapter on which the NDS is based.

[russianhalo117]

Who is building the docking port for HTV-X2?

Likely Boeing. They designed the National Docking System and they already provide the Common Berthing Mechanism for the HTV.

JAXA Docking System is a joint project by JAXA and MHI. Boeing, Energia Airbus DS and TAS could be subcontractors as the prime contractor is MHI. It is supposed to be domestically developed using the ISS MCB developed IDSS documentation.

[eeergo]

Looks ready to go!

https://twitter.com/Astro_Kimiya/status/1546341533804544000

[eeergo]

Looks ready to go!

And indeed, the pressurized module for the first HTV-X has been shipped from Nagoya to Tanegashima!

https://twitter.com/HTVX_JAXA/status/1554662174907596800

[russianhalo117]

[Rondaz]

Ojarimose Tanegashima

HTV-X new space station resupply vehicle @HTVX_JAXA ·9h The HTV-X1 pressurization module has safely arrived at 🌴Tanegashima. The container with the pressurized module will be transported by land to the Tanegashima Space Center ( @tnsc_JAXA )!

https://twitter.com/tnsc_JAXA/status/1555425084780990464

[Rondaz]

"HTV-X is a resupply capsule developed mainly for transporting goods to @Space_Station  (#ISS), and @MHI_Group is responsible for dev of overall system and pressurization module. After being assembled at #Tanegashima Space Center @tnsc_JAXA, it will launch on #H3." #HTVX

https://twitter.com/SpaceIntellige3/status/1555481957865324546

[Rondaz]

The Sierra Space business development team recently visited with @MHI_Group executives in Nagoya, Japan, and toured the company’s production facilities where the HTV-X cargo spacecraft is under development.

https://twitter.com/SierraSpaceCo/status/1557462426877960192

[Rondaz]

The debut of Japan’s new ISS cargo supply ship, HTV-X, has been delayed from January 2023 to January 2024. It will launch on Japan’s H3 rocket, which also has yet to make its debut.

https://twitter.com/SciGuySpace/status/1585365132116635648

[FutureSpaceTourist]

https://twitter.com/htvx_jaxa/status/1598541178240393221

In October 2022, we shipped the completed HTV-X1 propulsion system to the factory in Kamakura, which manufactures the entire service module! The propulsion system consists of thrusters (small rocket engines) for orbit and attitude control, tanks for fuel and oxidizer, many pipes, sensors, valves, etc. 💨
#JAXA #HTVX #開発日記

[russianhalo117]

Conversion and modernisation of former HTV MCR for the handover to the HTV-X programme mission operations and test control unit teams (shown at the end the activation session and the first official mission sim in the MCR for HTV-X1). Note nearly all MCR projection screen and monitor information is redacted for ISS USOS ITAR, IP, domestic government restrictions on proprietary information, et cetera:

HTV-X Mission Control Room Renewal Construction Time-Lapse

[FutureSpaceTourist]

https://twitter.com/htvx_jaxa/status/1694640984204927294

On July 1, we unpacked and installed the HTV-X1 pressurized module, which was delivered to the Tanegashima Space Center last year 👨‍🔧
Through early September, work will be carried out to establish work procedures at the launch site, such as various tests and cargo loading!

#JAXA #HTVX #開発日記

https://twitter.com/htvx_jaxa/status/1697538945620566037

With the participation of astronaut Onishi and experts from JAXA and NASA, a test called CEIT was conducted at the Tanegashima Space Center to check the operability and safety of the HTV-X1 pressurization module and onboard equipment. 🔍 CEIT is being conducted in multiple parts, and we plan to conduct tests targeting service modules in the future.
#JAXA #HTVX #開発日記

[FutureSpaceTourist]

From June:

https://twitter.com/htvx_jaxa/status/1666989127492050945

Development of automatic docking technology demonstration #JDOCX for HTV-X2 is also underway! Following the test in Japan, we brought the device to NASA's facility "SDTS", which can simulate more realistic movements during docking, and conducted a full-scale test 💻
#JAXA #HTVX #開発日記

[russianhalo117]

HTV-X flights shifted to debut in 2025 and conclude in JFY2026:

Japanese space launches on 2024


Japan launch schedule
2024
January 11 04:00～06:00 - H-2A (F48)  - IGS Optical-8
Feb. 15  00:22:55～04:06:34- H3 Test Flight#2 (to SSO) - H3-22S - VEP-4(Vehicle Evaluation Payload-4) , CE-SAT-1E, TIRSAT (3U Cubesat)
JFY 2024 - H-2A (F49) - IGS Radar-8
JFY 2024 - H-2A (F50) (Last flight)- GOSAT-GW (GOSAT-3)
JFY 2024 - H3 - ALOS-4 (Advanced Radar Satellite)"先進レーダ衛星"
JFY 2024 - H3 - X-Band defense communication satellite-3(DSN-3)  “きらめき3号(Kirameki-3)”
JFY 2024 - H3 - QZS-5
2024- (Vega-C) - EarthCARE (ESA/JAXA Joint development)
JFY 2024 - Epsilon S Demonstration flight (Epsilon Flight No.7) - LOTUSat-1


2024 - ? - Terex-2 orbiter
TBD - KAIROS（Kii-based  Advanced  & Instant ROcket System）Test flight (SPACE ONE Co,. Ltd.)
TBD  - (Electron) - ADRAS-J（Active Debris Removal by Astroscale-Japan)
TBD  - (Electron) - StriX-2 (Synspective Inc.)
TBD  -  ALE-3
TBD - (Falcon 9) - ispace commercial lunar lander Mission 2
2024 (TBD)- TBD rocket - small satellite×3 including "うみつばめ" (PETREL: Platform for Extra-& Terrestrial Remote Examination with LCTF), KOYOH, STARS-X



2025
JFY 2025 - Epsilon S - DESTINY +
JFY 2025 - Epsilon - innovative technology demonstration satellite-4 "革新的衛星技術実証4号機" (including 8 Cubesats)
2025 - H3  (to LEO) - HTV-X1
JFY 2025 - H3 - QZS-6
JFY 2025 - H3 - QZS-7
JFY 2025 - H3 (to GTO)- ETS (Engineering Test Satellite) -9

NET JFY2025 - H3 (TBD) - solar power sail for Trojan asteroids  OKEANOS (Oversize Kite-craft for Exploration and AstroNautics in the Outer Solar system) (Mission candidate)
NET JFY2025 - H3 - CRD2(Commercial Removal of Debris Demonstration) Phse-II mission


2026
2026 - H3 - Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX) (Japan and India joint project lunar lander & rover)
2026 - H3 - HTV-X2
2026 - H3 - Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) (Phobos sample return mission)
JFY2026 - H3 - IGS Optical "光学多様化1号機"
JFY 2026 - H3 - HTV-X3


2027
JFY 2027 -H3- SDA (Space Domain Awareness) satellite
JFY 2027 - H3 - IGS Optical-9
JFY 2027 - H3 - IGS Optical "光学多様化2号機"
JFY 2027 - Epsilon  - innovative technology demonstration satellite-5 "革新的衛星技術実証5号機"



2028
JFY 2028 - H3 - Himawari-10
JFY 2028 - H3 - IGS Rader "レーダ多様化1号機"
JFY 2028 - Epsilon - JASMINE (EXO-JASMINE)
2028 - Epsilon - SOLAR-C (EUVST)

Unclear:
(TBD) JFY 2028 - H3 - advanced optical earth observation satellite-2 "先進光学衛星後継機1" (ALOS-3 follow-on)　
(TBD) JFY 2028 - H3 - Japanese Data Relay Satellite-2 (JDRS-2)


2029
JFY2029 - H3 - IGS Optical-10
JFY 2029 - H3 - IGS Rader "レーダ多様化2号機"
JFY 2029 - Epsilon  - innovative technology demonstration satellite-6 "革新的衛星技術実証6号機"

Unclear:
(TBD) JFY2029 - H3 - Advanced Radar Satellite"先進レーダ衛星後継機1"(ALOS-4 follow-on)　
(TBD) JFY2029 - H3 - QZS-2R～4R Launch #1 (Dual launch)


2030


2031
JFY2031 - H3- IGS Radar-9
JFY 2031 - Epsilon  - innovative technology demonstration satellite-7 "革新的衛星技術実証7号機"

Unclear:
（TBD) JFY2031 - H3 - ETS-10
（TBD) JFY2031 - H3 - QZS-2R～4R Launch #2 (Dual launch)



2032
JFY 2032 - H3 - LiteBIRD  (Sun-Earth L2)

2033
NET JFY2033 - H3 - IGS Optical-11
NET JFY2033 - H3 - IGS Radar-10


2034
JFY2034 - H3- IGS Radar-11


Unclear:
?? - Epsilon?? - Vietnamese Earth Observation Satellite B (LOTUSat-2)
TBD  (VEGA: TBD) Nano-JASMINE (to SSO)
?? - TBD - formally known SELENE-2 (Under review: collaboration with NASA'S RPM program)


Changes on Jan. 1, 2024

[litton4]

First one is scheduled to fly in 2021. With the normal delays, that would probably be 2025.

Prophetic - quoted for posterity.

[russianhalo117]

First one is scheduled to fly in 2021. With the normal delays, that would probably be 2025.

Prophetic - quoted for posterity.

Except that not all of the HTV-X1 delays were normal. In the latest delay is H3-TF1 failing resulting in all of the originally scheduled payloads being bumped to the right by one flight each to create the return to flight test mission with a dummy payload. They had to halt its launch campaign when H3-TF1 failed because of the limited stored life clock once the filled pressurized resupply tanks and propulsion tanks received their supply of mission components.

[russianhalo117]

JAXA JDOCX on HTV-X2:

[Fuji]

SM (Service Module) and UPCSS (Unpressurised Cargo Support System) attachment works at MELCO.  (Jun, 2024)
https://x.com/HTVX_JAXA/status/1804033777796288796

[Fuji]

HTV-X1's Service Module (SM) thermal vacuum test at MELCO. (April ,2024)
https://x.com/HTVX_JAXA/status/1859845309305848067

[ddspaceman]

宇推くりあ🚀❤️‍🔥ロケットアイドル🩵ྀི
@clearusui
GT:
Usu Kuria🚀❤️‍🔥Rocket Idol🩵ྀི
@clearusui

♦️Interview report♦️

Everyone, look! !
At Mitsubishi Electric Kamakura Plant,
HTV-X Unit 1 is finally unveiled 🌟

HTV-X is a supply vehicle that carries supplies to the International Space Station! 🛰

It has 160% more capacity than the previous HTV (Kounotori), and can apparently carry large experimental equipment that cannot be carried by overseas supply planes!

And...

It seems that automatic docking experiments will also be carried out on Unit 2! ! I’m so looking forward to the broadcast ✨✨

What would you like to bring with you as a large cargo?
Let me know by replying~✨✨✨

#PR #Mitsubishi Electric #HTVX

Points to be grasped by the robot arm

☠️ Danger
Here's Thruster.
The 500N main engine that was present in the Kounotori era is no longer there...
24 120Ns...!

Up, so cute

Close up, so cute

You forgot to lift it straight up. This is the part called the service module, and this lower pressurized section is attached to it.
This part contains all of the basic functions of a satellite, so if you wanted to, it was even possible to fly using just this module!
strong.

https://twitter.com/clearusui/status/1866404879092355241

https://twitter.com/clearusui/status/1866406251590275545

https://twitter.com/clearusui/status/1866459279781482589

[Fuji]

HTV-X's Service Module has opend for medias at MELCO, in December 10, 2024.  (Japanese article)
https://news.mynavi.jp/techplus/article/20241210-3082801/

[shiro]

HTV-X1 vehicle seems to be delivered to Tanegashima on Jan 17th.

https://twitter.com/mageshiman1025/status/1880212349333958884

[GewoonLukas_]

HTV-X1 now scheduled for October 2025:

As a proud partner of MHI, we supplied the payload fairing and the payload support structure for the H3 HTV-X mission. After an exciting journey from our factory in Switzerland our fairing arrived safely in Japan - ready for its mission in October 2025. 🚀 #H3 #rocketscience

https://twitter.com/BeyondGravity_S/status/1899848327719420279

[zubenelgenubi]

CRS-32 (SpX-32) prelaunch media telecon:
Launch mentioned for "later this fall" September 2025.

Corrected; thank you!

[GewoonLukas_]

CRS-32 (SpX-32) prelaunch media telecon:
Launch mentioned for September 2025.

That was for Cygnus NG-23. HTV-X was mentioned for launch "later this fall"

[Fuji]

HTV-X1 was opened for medias.
https://373news.com/news/local/detail/214835/

[AndrewM]

HTV-X1 was opened for medias.
https://373news.com/news/local/detail/214835/

The article states launch in FY25 which is April 1st 2025 to March 31 2026.

A thread with lots of other pictures.
https://twitter.com/NVSreporter/status/1929422509436231811 [June 2]

[AndrewM]

Apparently HTV-X is on contract for 5 missions, that's more than I was aware of.

It is scheduled to make five trips to deliver food, water, experimental materials and other supplies for astronauts by fiscal 2029.

https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/science-nature/technology/20250612-263108/

[Tomness]

Apparently HTV-X is on contract for 5 missions, that's more than I was aware of.

It is scheduled to make five trips to deliver food, water, experimental materials and other supplies for astronauts by fiscal 2029.

https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/science-nature/technology/20250612-263108/

Yeah,  cause they are usually 1 year missions. Must be 6 month missions back to back.

[StraumliBlight]

HTV-X1 Overview Images [Jun 9]

The Flight HTV-X1 manifest includes the delivery of the Intravehicular Activity (IVA) Resuppliable Small Exposed Experiment Platform (i-SEEP) 3B payload. The i-SEEP-3B payload will be extracted robotically from the HTV-X1 vehicle by the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS) and Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) before handoff to the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) Robotic Manipulator System (RMS) to bring i-SEEP-3B internal via the JEM Airlock (JEMAL). Once integrated with payloads, i-SEEP-3B will be installed on the JEM Exposed Facility (JEM-EF) for future operations at Site 5.

Overview of the Technology Demonstration Mission for the New Space Station Resupply Vehicle (HTV-X) No. 1

[Tywin]

IVA is a spacesuit?

[edzieba]

IVA is a spacesuit?

No. Like the previous iSEEP platforms, payload swapout is done by the JEM RMS moving the platform to JEM's airlock, the platform being cycled inside, work being done inside JEM, then the platform is cycled back out of the airlock and the RMS remounts it.

[russianhalo117]

IVA is a spacesuit?

No. Like the previous iSEEP platforms, payload swapout is done by the JEM RMS moving the platform to JEM's airlock, the platform being cycled inside, work being done inside JEM, then the platform is cycled back out of the airlock and the RMS remounts it.

No. IVA can be with (Zvezda Service Module hatch reconfiguration for Poisk docking) or without a spacesuit inside the spacecraft (crew members onbard overseeing EVA operations and contingencies including during comms LOS. EVA is those outside the spacecraft. IVA crew control RMS ops otherwise when remote controlled its IVR/IRA).

From the above HTV-X1 link description:
Intravehicular Activity (IVA) Resuppliable Small Exposed Experiment Platform (i-SEEP) JAXA keeps the original name despite their redesign for Intravehicular Robotic Activity R&R and JEMAL handling

[AndrewM]

Still tracking a launch this fall.

https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/canada-reaffirms-longstanding-space-collaboration-with-japan-853803098.html [July 9]

In 2009, Canadarm2's first cosmic catch was JAXA's HTV cargo ship. This year, Canadarm2 will catch JAXA's new HTV-X vehicle and berth it to the ISS.

From the Crew-11 briefing on July 11th:

https://twitter.com/SpaceflightNow/status/1943344760724337023
https://twitter.com/SpaceflightNow/status/1943346963547668948

9/ Spetch notes that another Progress spacecraft and NG-23 are launching this fall, with the latter including the first extended Cygnus spacecraft. JAXA will also launch the HTV-X cargo vehicle to the ISS in the fall.

13/ Matsuura says the HTV-X cargo vehicle will be berthed to the ISS and hopes that Yui will be the one to be able to operate the Canadarm2 (sounds like that is still TBD at this point).

[StraumliBlight]

HTV-X will launch in October according to today's Crew-10 post splashdown news conference.


Safety Measures for the New Space Station Resupply Vehicle No. 1 (HTV-X1): Investigation and Deliberation Results [Sep 29]

[Galactic Penguin SST]

HTV-X will launch in October according to today's Crew-10 post splashdown news conference.

And now confirmed for October 21, 01:58 UTC. HTV-X1’s mission specific updates can now go here.

[JulesVerneATV]

HTV-X

https://www.reuters.com/science/japan-launch-new-spacecraft-resupply-international-space-station-october-2025-08-22/

[JulesVerneATV]

Japan successfully launches new cargo transporter into space
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20251026_07/

[AndrewM]

Apparently HTV-X is on contract for 5 missions, that's more than I was aware of.

It is scheduled to make five trips to deliver food, water, experimental materials and other supplies for astronauts by fiscal 2029.

https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/science-nature/technology/20250612-263108/

Sounds like 3 are firm order with 2 additional options. 3 missions was what I had previously heard.

Space station astronauts eager to open “golden treasure box” from Japan [Oct. 29]

Officials plan to launch at least three such HTV-X missions to the ISS. There are tentative plans for a fourth and fifth HTV-X that could launch before 2030. The second HTV-X mission will attempt Japan’s first automated docking with the space station, a prerequisite for any future resupply missions to the Gateway.

[russianhalo117]

Apparently HTV-X is on contract for 5 missions, that's more than I was aware of.

It is scheduled to make five trips to deliver food, water, experimental materials and other supplies for astronauts by fiscal 2029.

https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/science-nature/technology/20250612-263108/

Sounds like 3 are firm order with 2 additional options. 3 missions was what I had previously heard.

Space station astronauts eager to open “golden treasure box” from Japan [Oct. 29]

Officials plan to launch at least three such HTV-X missions to the ISS. There are tentative plans for a fourth and fifth HTV-X that could launch before 2030. The second HTV-X mission will attempt Japan’s first automated docking with the space station, a prerequisite for any future resupply missions to the Gateway.

Apparently HTV-X is on contract for 5 missions, that's more than I was aware of.

It is scheduled to make five trips to deliver food, water, experimental materials and other supplies for astronauts by fiscal 2029.

https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/science-nature/technology/20250612-263108/

Yeah,  cause they are usually 1 year missions. Must be 6 month missions back to back.

Japan launch schedule
...
2028
2028～2029 - H3-24W - HTV-X4
2029
2029～2030 - H3-24W - HTV-X5

Changes on Sep. 26, 2025

Per the Japanese 5 year plan and MHI Contract exercising to allow long lead procurement. HTV-X4 and HTV-X4 procurement was transferred from HTV-XG1 and HTV-XG2 for Lunar Gateway for the ISS bartering agreement underway that hasn't been ratified yet by international partners.

[AndrewM]

HTV-X2's pressure vessel has arrived at Tanegashima.

https://twitter.com/HTVX_JAXA/status/1991823068420100146?s=20 [Nov. 21]

HTV-X is a regular service to space.
While the first unit is docked at the ISS, the pressurized module of the second unit has arrived at Tanegashima🚢
Please watch the time-lapse video of the "stone skipping" after arriving at Tanegashima and the footage of the land transport conducted at night within the island👀

#JAXA #HTVX #開発日記 #GoHTVX2

[russianhalo117]

HTV-X2's pressure vessel has arrived at Tanegashima.

https://twitter.com/HTVX_JAXA/status/1991823068420100146?s=20 [Nov. 21]

HTV-X is a regular service to space.
While the first unit is docked at the ISS, the pressurized module of the second unit has arrived at Tanegashima
Please watch the time-lapse video of the "stone skipping" after arriving at Tanegashima and the footage of the land transport conducted at night within the island

#JAXA #HTVX #開発日記 #GoHTVX2

This mission will fly the IDSS compliant JDS rendezvous and docking demonstrator (JAXA/Japan Docking System) as the sole primary external payload and one or more H-SSOD's (HTV-X Small Satellite Orbital Deployer).