Super-speed Internet satellite was launched in Japan

Japan initiated rocket Saturday carrying a satellite that will test new technology that promises to deliver "super high-speed Internet service to homes and businesses around the world.

A rocket with a super-fast Internet satellite lifts off from its launch pad on the Japanese island of Tanagashima.

Missile WINDS satellite - a joint project of Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries - lifted from their site at 5:55 pm (0855 GMT).

If the technology proves successful, subscribers with small dishes will connect to the Internet at speeds many times faster than what is currently available over residential cable or DSL services.

The Associated Press said that the satellite will offer speeds of up to 1.2 gigabytes per second.

The service initially will focus on the Asia-Pacific region are close to Japan, JAXA press release said.

"Among other purposes, it would great progress in the area of telemedicine, which allows high-quality medical care in remote areas, as well as in distance education, connecting students and teachers separated by long distances," said JAXA.

Missiles launched from Japan to Yoshinobu Launch Complex at the Tanegashima Space Center.