This article is from the source 'bbc' and was first published or seen on . It will not be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/5333560.stm

The article has changed 3 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 0 Version 1
Japan launches new spy satellite Japan launches new spy satellite
(10 minutes later)
Japan has launched a rocket carrying its third spy satellite, increasing its ability to monitor North Korea.Japan has launched a rocket carrying its third spy satellite, increasing its ability to monitor North Korea.
Japan's space agency, Jaxa, launched the H2-A rocket from the southern island of Tanegashima.Japan's space agency, Jaxa, launched the H2-A rocket from the southern island of Tanegashima.
Japan has two spy satellites already in orbit. Two others were lost when a rocket failed in November 2003.Japan has two spy satellites already in orbit. Two others were lost when a rocket failed in November 2003.
Japan began its intelligence-gathering satellite programme following North Korea's test launch of a long-range missile that flew over Japan in 1998.Japan began its intelligence-gathering satellite programme following North Korea's test launch of a long-range missile that flew over Japan in 1998.
This launch follows a series of missile tests by Pyongyang in July, which included a new weapon, the Taepodong-2, which is potentially capable of hitting parts of the United States.
The rocket lifted off from Japan's space centre at 1335 local time (0435 GMT).
Shortly afterwards, the satellite separated successfully from the rocket, officials said.
The optical satellite will be able to distinguish objects such as cars on the ground, Kyodo news agency said.
A radar satellite is scheduled for launch later this year.