JCSAT-16

The first stage became the first to complete a ballistic-trajectory recovery using a single-engine landing burn rather than the three-engine burn used on all previous GTO landings — a technique that reduced structural loads while accepting a longer, more fuel-intensive descent.

JCSAT-16, built by Space Systems/Loral, was a backup communications satellite for Sky Perfect JSAT, providing coverage across Japan and the Asia-Pacific region.