The launch of the Ohsumi satellite marked a pivotal moment in Japan's space history, taking place at the Kagoshima Space Center. On February 11, 1970, Japan succeeded in placing the Ohsumi satellite into orbit, becoming the fourth nation to launch a satellite into space with its own vehicle after the United States, the Soviet Union, and France. This critical achievement underscored Japan's advancements in rocketry and satellite technology, showcasing its growing capabilities in the realm of space exploration. The Ohsumi satellite served as an experimental satellite with various objectives, including technology demonstration and data collection, reflecting Japan's intent to engage more actively in the technological competition of the era.

The Ohsumi was launched aboard the Lambda 4S rocket, which was developed by the National Space Development Agency (NASDA). The successful launch demonstrated the breakthroughs in Japan's indigenous rocket technology and propelled the country further into the competitive sphere of space research and satellite deployment. This achievement was not merely symbolic; it represented substantial investment in research and development, catalyzing Japan's ambitions regarding both civilian space endeavors and potential defense-related applications.

Following the launch, Japan continued to enhance its space exploration capabilities, leading to a series of successful projects over the subsequent decades. The successful deployment of Ohsumi also paved the way for increased public and governmental support for space initiatives, laying the groundwork for future missions, including the development of communication and weather satellites and international cooperative endeavors in space.