"In 1970 scientists and administrators of Japan’s Space Development Agency were ready to launch the country’s first satellite. … Shortly before the launch, senior representatives of the agency visited Chichibu Shinto shrine located near Tokyo. Their goal: to petition its deity Myōken (the North Star) that their endeavor might succeed. When the rocket blasted off and placed a satellite in its intended orbit, these same individuals made a return trip to express their gratitude." —J.K. Nelson, 2000