Tokyo-based startup Space One’s aspirations to mark Japan’s entry into the private sector space race were abruptly halted when the company’s KAIROS (Kii-based Advanced & Instant ROcket System) rocket, carrying a mock satellite, exploded just seconds after liftoff on Wednesday in central Japan.
The mishap occurred at a new space facility in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture,at about 11:01 AM local time when the 18-meter, 23-ton rocket lifted off, only to explode in midair five seconds into the flight. The Kairos rocket, which marked Japan’s inaugural entry into private company launch services, was designed to carry a government spy satellite mock-up into orbit. The mission was aimed at bolstering Japan’s satellite launch capabilities and keeping pace with global space powers like the U.S. and China.
Live footage captured the moment of the explosion, showing a large plume of smoke and flames enveloping the launch area, followed by attempts to extinguish the resulting fire. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, and the fire was successfully contained, according to Kushimoto city’s fire department.
The failed launch, which was autonomously aborted after the rocket detected an issue, is being seen not just as a mishap but as a crucial learning step. Wakayama Governor Shuhei Kishimoto echoed this sentiment, noting the rocket’s programmed response to abort the flight as a significant development. “It’s different from an uncontrolled explosion, so I’m a bit relieved,” Kishimoto commented.
Space One’s President, Masakazu Toyoda, addressed the media regarding the Kairos launch stating, “We are taking what happened in a positive way and remain prepared to take up the next challenge.” Despite the setback, the company, founded in July 2018 with backing from major Japanese corporations, remains committed to its goal of achieving 20 liftoffs a year by the end of 2029.
The cause of the explosion is under investigation, with Space One executives pledging to uncover the issue promptly and take measures to prevent future occurrences. This incident follows a series of delays for the company, which they attributed to logistical challenges amid the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions.
Japan’s space endeavors, historically spearheaded by the government’s Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), have seen a push towards private sector involvement in recent years.
Shinichi Nakasuka, a professor at the University of Tokyo known for his work on nano-satellites, drew parallels to SpaceX’s early failures and subsequent triumphs. “It is the firm’s refusal to give up that has led to its success now,” Nakasuka said, of SpaceX, emphasizing the importance of resilience and speed in the competitive space industry.
