 |
|
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
|
|
M series (Japanese rockets)
Rockets developed by ISAS (Institute of Space and Astronautical Science) from the earlier and smaller L series ("L" and "M" are short for "Lambda" and "Mu"). In order of debut after the L-4S, they are the M-4S, M-3C, M-3H, M-3S, M-3SII, and M-5.
M-3
 |
The three-stage M-3C was the second rocket in the M series, after the M-4S. With newly developed second and third stages it improved the accuracy of orbital injection and launched the satellites Tansei-2, Taiyo, and Hakucho. The M-3H was derived by extending the first stage motor casing to increase the propellant capacity and hence the amount of payload that could be carried. It launched Tansei-3, Kyokko, and Jikiken. The third generation M-3S brought further improvements in the accuracy of orbital insertion and launched Tansei-4, Tenma, Hinotori, and Ohzora. A fourth generation began with M-3SII which used the first stage of M-3S, and new upper stages to enhance its payload capability. The M-3SII-1 and -2, with an optional fourth kick stage, sent the first and second Japanese interplanetary probes, Sakigake and Suisei, on their way to an encounter with Halley's Comet. Seven M-3SII launches out of eight have been successful, including those of Sakigake, Suisei, Ginga, Akebono, Hiten, Yohkoh, and ASCA.
M-4
Chronologically, the first member of the M series was the four-stage M-4S rocket. It launched the satellites Tanpei, Shinsei, and Denpa.
M-5
 |
| M-4S | M3-C | M-3H | M-3S | M-3SII | M-5 | |
| total length (m) | 23.6 | 20.2 | 23.8 | 23.8 | 27.8 | 30.7 |
| diameter (m) | 1.41 | 1.41 | 1.41 | 1.41 | 1.41 | 2.5 |
| total mass (tons) | 43.6 | 41.6 | 48.7 | 48.7 | 61 | 139 |
| payload to LEO (kg) | 180 | 195 | 300 | 300 | 770 | 1,800 |
Related categories
• ROCKETS, MISSILES, AND LAUNCH VEHICLES
• JAPANESE LAUNCH VEHICLES
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History
Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site)