Japanese Astronaut Kimiya Yui Docks HTV-X1 Supply Craft to International Space Station

Historic Capture Marks New Chapter in Space Logistics

Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui successfully captured the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) newly developed HTV-X1 cargo spacecraft using the International Space Station's (ISS) Canadarm2 robotic arm in the early hours of October 30, 2025. The successful berthing of the uncrewed vehicle represents a significant milestone for Japan's space program, marking the first flight of the HTV-X series and a new era for Japanese space logistics.

HTV-X1: Successor to a Legacy

The HTV-X1, developed by JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), is the successor to the highly successful H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) 'Kounotori' series, which completed nine resupply missions between 2009 and 2020. The maiden HTV-X1 mission launched on October 26, 2025, aboard the H3 launch vehicle (Flight 7) from JAXA's Tanegashima Space Center. This new generation spacecraft boasts enhanced capabilities, including a greater payload capacity and the ability to remain berthed to the ISS for up to six months, followed by an extended three-month orbital test flight for technology demonstrations.

Vital Cargo and Pioneering Research Delivered

The HTV-X1 delivered approximately 4.4 to 5.8 tons of critical supplies to the orbiting laboratory. This essential cargo included:

• Food and water
• Crew supplies
• Scientific experiments
• Carbon dioxide removal equipment for future lunar and Mars exploration demonstration experiments

Additionally, the spacecraft carried over 20 research projects for the ISS National Lab, including materials testing and a unique brewing apparatus for the 'Dassai MOON Project,' which aims to explore sake brewing in space.

Astronaut Yui's Expertise and International Collaboration

Astronaut Kimiya Yui, 55, executed the capture of the HTV-X1 at approximately 12:58 a.m. Japan time on October 30. He was assisted by NASA astronaut Zena Cardman during the robotic arm operations. Yui is no stranger to such complex maneuvers, having previously captured the fifth Kounotori unit with a robotic arm during his long-term stay at the ISS in 2015. Following the successful capture, Yui communicated with ground control, stating, 'Thank you for entrusting me with this important task today.' Fellow Japanese astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, 56, responded from NASA's control room in the United States, congratulating Yui on the successful capture.

Future Implications for Space Exploration

The successful docking of the HTV-X1 underscores Japan's growing capabilities in independent space transport and its commitment to international cooperation in space. The advanced design and extended mission capabilities of the HTV-X series are expected to play a crucial role in supporting ongoing ISS operations and paving the way for future lunar and deep-space exploration initiatives.