A livestreamed video on March 13 captured the explosion of Japan’s first private sector rocket, named Kairos, shortly after takeoff from Wakayama Prefecture. The rocket, launched by Tokyo-based start-up Space One, exploded midair moments after liftoff, engulfing the area in smoke and flames. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, and the fire has been contained. Space One, yet to comment on the incident, had faced multiple delays before the launch. The failure marks a setback for Japan’s private space exploration efforts, contrasting with the government-led initiatives by JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency).
Japan’s First Private Rocket Launch Ends in Explosion
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