JAXA H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) Kounotori
JAXA H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) Kounotori
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) H-II Transfer Vehicle, known as HTV or Kounotori, is an autonomous cargo spacecraft which serves as a critical lifeline to the International Space Station (ISS), supporting space research and maintaining the station's operations.
The H-II rocket system is responsible for carrying the HTV, a resupply vessel, into orbit. Once in space, the HTV Kounotori autonomously docks with the ISS, delivering essential cargo, supplies, and scientific experiments. This critical resupply mission ensures the well-being and functionality of the ISS, facilitating collaborative research and exploration in orbit.
The HTV Kounotori represents Japan's remarkable contributions to global space cooperation, underscoring JAXA's dedication to supporting international space research and exploration. Its successful missions to the ISS strengthen global partnerships and promote scientific discovery beyond Earth's boundaries.