L-4T

Lambda-4T

Mission Profile

L-4T (Lambda-4T) is a four-stage Japanese solid-propellant launch vehicle in the Lambda series, developed by the University of Tokyo's Institute of Space and Aeronautical Science as a stepping stone toward orbital capability. First flying on 3 September 1969, it was used to test the guidance, structures, and propulsion systems that would culminate in Japan's first successful orbital launch with the Lambda-4S in February 1970. The Lambda series established Japan's foundational rocketry expertise using entirely domestic solid-propellant technology.