A Japanese Rocket Explodes Minutes After Takeoff, Dealing a Blow to Commercial Launch Ambitions
Launch Failure of Space One’s Kairos Rocket
By [Your Name], News Writer
Date: [Current Date]
Japan | World
A major setback occurred in Japan’s domestic commercial space race, as a rocket built by Tokyo-based company, Space One, exploded just moments after its launch. The rocket, named Kairos, was carrying a small government test satellite and was intended to test the viability of Japan’s homegrown commercial launch industry, marking Japan’s aspirations for a future in satellite launch services.
Witnesses reported seeing flames and billowing smoke as the solid-fuelled rocket disintegrated in mid-air, casting burning debris onto the surrounding mountainous area. Space One immediately halted the flight, sharing in a statement that “details are being investigated” to determine the cause of the explosion.
Notably, failed rocket launches are relatively common, and often expected, as exemplified by SpaceX’s initial stumbles in its infancy stages. Despite this understanding, Space One’s unsuccessful launch is undoubtedly a setback for Japan’s pursuit to establish a profitable presence within the commercial satellite launch market. The rocket’s objective was to successfully deploy the satellite into an orbit roughly 51 minutes post-launch. However, the mission experienced repeated delays due to parts shortages and other technical issues.
The mayor of Kushimoto, where the launch took place, expressed surprise and disappointment following the incident. He conveyed the town’s continued support for Space One’s endeavors, emphasizing a desire for the next launch attempt to be crowned with success.
Space One, formed in 2018 by a consortium of notable Japanese technology businesses including Canon Electronics, IHI Aerospace, Shimizu construction firm, and the government-owned Development Bank of Japan, will now have to regroup and investigate the cause of the failure. Last July, another Japanese rocket, the solid-fueled Epsilon S, prematurely exploded during a test around 50 seconds after ignition.
While this setback may temporarily hamper progress, Japan equally celebrates accomplished achievements in the field of space technology. Recently, the country successfully landed an unmanned probe on the moon, securing its position as the fifth country to achieve a “soft landing” on the lunar surface, albeit a far from ideal position. Japan’s space agency also rejoiced in the prosperous launch of its H3 flagship rocket last month, following years of setbacks and two unsuccessful launch attempts.
The Japanese government, alongside Space One and other domestic players, remains committed to tirelessly pursuing the country’s space ambitions. As the investigation into the rocket’s failure progresses, hopes will be high for a future successful launch.
With AFP
