Next-Generation Japanese Rocket Aborts Before Launch
- Mitsubishi Heavy seeking to challenge SpaceX with new rocket
- Launch attempt aborted because of system malfunction
The attempted launch of the H3 rocket at the Tanegashima Space Center in Minamitane, Kagoshima Prefecture, on Feb. 17.
Photographer: Kota Kiriyama/Yomiuri Shimbun/AP Images
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Japan’s much-vaunted launch of its flagship rocket was a fizzer — a disappointing result as competition with Elon Musk’s SpaceX intensifies and the island nation looks to expand its defense prowess amid growing geopolitical tensions.
While weather conditions were good, a system malfunction stopped a launch signal from reaching the H3 rocket’s side booster, officials said Friday afternoon. Sparks flew from the craft as it prepared to take off, but spluttered to a halt in seconds.