* Astronomy

The first satellite dedicated to monitoring carbon dioxide emissions was launched into space Friday from a center in Japan, where officials hope to gather information on climate change - and help the country compete in the lucrative satellite-launching business.
The satellite - named "Ibuki," which means "breath" - was sent into orbit along with seven other piggyback probes on a Japanese H2A rocket. Japan's space agency, JAXA, said the launch was a success but officials there said they were monitoring the satellites to make sure that they entered orbit properly.

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IBUKI (GOSAT) separation

All systems nominal

L-minus 5 minutes