Japan has successfully launched a manga-decorated rocket into geostationary orbit.
The weather satellite that Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) sent was designed to inspire the youth to explore outer space and make them interested in astronautics.
The project was made possible by the Young Astronauts Club Japan, which sent the second third generation weather satellite and also the ninth weather satellites sent to the orbit. The space vehicle was launched from the Tanegashima Space Center in Osumi Islands.
Two manga arts made by kids across the nation decorated the H-IIA rocket. Hirokazu Kosada of the organization said that 30,000 digital photos were used to create a collage. The drawings were original works of Chuya Toyama, a manga artist and also the creator of the series "Space Brothers." The series evolves around a story of two brothers who dream of becoming astronauts.
One drawing showing 12 jumping youngsters measures nine-feet and was placed on the upper part of the vehicle. Kosada said, "we believe it's the first time in the world launch a rocket with manga art on it."
Japan's aeronautics and space program is considered massive especially with its commercial and scientific projects. The manga-decorated rocket may be a source of inspiration not just for Japanese children but also for youth around the globe.