Overview of Sounding Rockets

The Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS) develops and operates sounding rockets to conduct observations and scientific experiments in space. The primary purpose of these sounding rockets is to collect scientific data by reaching space in a short time and performing observations with advanced equipment.

ISAS began developing sounding rockets in the 1960s, and many rockets have been launched since then. In addition to the S-310 and S-520, ISAS has also developed rockets such as the S-210, S-300, and SS-520. Each rocket is designed to meet different objectives and specifications, enabling a wide range of scientific experiments and observations.

DARTS provides access to some of the observational data obtained from instruments mounted on the S-310 and S-520 rockets.

S-310 Rocket

The S-310 rocket was first launched in 1975. This rocket has a diameter of 31 cm, a total length of 7.0 meters, and weighs 700 kg. The S-310 is used for upper atmosphere observations and ionospheric research. As of July 2024, a total of 48 S-310 rockets have been launched. Due to its stable performance and reliability, it has been actively used in various scientific observation missions.

S-520 Rocket

The S-520 rocket was first launched in 1980. This rocket has a diameter of 52 cm, a total length of 9.5 meters, and weighs 2,300 kg. The S-520 was developed to enable higher altitude observations and to accommodate larger experimental equipment. As of July 2024, a total of 30 S-520 rockets have been launched. The S-520 has contributed to a wide range of scientific experiments due to its large payload capacity and high altitude reach.

These sounding rockets have greatly contributed to the advancement of space science, and further discoveries and technological innovations are expected in the future.