Japanese Space One’s Kairos rocket explodes moments following launch
A rocket built by Japanese company Space One has suffered a catastrophic failure just seconds following liftoff. The rocket, named Kairos, was carrying a small government test satellite and was intended to put it into orbit. However, shortly following launch, the solid fuelled rocket exploded in flames, sending plumes of smoke into the sky.
Space One, based in Tokyo, had hoped that the Kairos rocket would be the first step towards establishing a successful commercial launch business. The company, established in 2018, is a collaboration between major Japanese tech businesses, including Canon Electronics and IHI Aerospace.
Unfortunately, failures during the early stages of new rocket systems are not uncommon. Space One’s setback is reminiscent of similar issues faced by SpaceX, the private space exploration company founded by Elon Musk. Despite this setback, Japan remains determined to enter the potentially lucrative commercial satellite launch market.
The Kairos rocket had experienced several delays prior to the failed launch. Parts shortages and other technical problems had caused the launch to be postponed five times, with the most recent delay occurring just days before the ill-fated launch.
The failed launch took place in the town of Kushimoto in the Wakayama region of western Japan. Many spectators had gathered to witness the launch and expressed their disappointment at the outcome. The mayor of Kushimoto voiced his surprise at the failure but pledged continued support for Space One’s future endeavors.
This failure comes just months following another Japanese rocket, the solid-fuel Epsilon S, exploded during a test. However, Japan’s space agency did enjoy a recent success with the launch of its new flagship rocket, the H3, following years of delays and previous failed attempts.
The implications of these recent rocket failures and successes are significant. They demonstrate the challenges and risks associated with developing new rocket technology, even for established space-faring nations like Japan. However, they also highlight the determination of these countries to push forward and expand their space exploration capabilities.
Looking to the future, it is likely that countries such as Japan will continue to invest heavily in the development of more reliable and efficient rocket systems. These advancements will not only contribute to the growth of the commercial satellite
