Canon-Backed Japanese Startup Suffers Another Rocket Failure

Taiwan space agency among customers for Space One’s mission
Earlier attempt failed with midair explosion soon after launch

The Kairos No. 2 rocket is launched from Space Port Kii in Kushimoto town on Dec. 18.Source: Kyodo News/AP Photos

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By Nicholas Takahashi

December 18, 2024 at 2:28 AM UTC

Updated on

December 18, 2024 at 12:55 PM UTC

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Space One Co., a Japanese startup backed by Canon Inc., failed a second time to launch its rocket in yet another setback for the country’s commercial space industry.

The lightweight Kairos rocket was carrying five satellites when it was ordered to self-destruct shortly after taking off around 11 a.m. Wednesday morning local time from Space Port Kii, about 420 kilometers (260 miles) southwest of Tokyo.