On March 13 (local time), the first launch of the Kairos rocket of Space One (Japan) ended in an explosion just a few seconds after takeoff, according to Reuters. The launch was broadcast live by local media on the Kii Peninsula in western Japan. The rocket exploded causing a large cloud of smoke, fire, and debris. Space One stated that the rocket launch is highly automated and requires more than 10 employees at the ground control center. They are currently investigating the cause of the explosion.
The Kairos rocket is 18 meters long and has 4 stages. It was carrying an experimental satellite of the Japanese Government that can temporarily replace intelligence satellites in orbit if they become inoperative. Space One had planned to launch the rocket on March 9, but they had to postpone it when a ship entered nearby waters. They are trying to become the first Japanese company to launch a satellite into orbit.
Although Japan is not a major player in the space race, rocket developers in the country are trying to create cheaper vehicles to meet demand. Satellite launches are booming, both from the Japanese government and global customers. Working with the United States, Japan is seeking to revitalize its domestic aerospace industry to cope with technological and military competition from China and Russia.
In 2023, the Japanese government promised to fully support startups related to the space industry with technology important to national security. Japan is also working to build satellite constellations to enhance intelligence capabilities.
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Source: Vietnam Insider