JAXA delays Japan's H3 rocket launch to Feb 17 citing weather conditions

[February 14, 2023]  (Reuters) - Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) will delay the maiden launch of its heavy-lift H3 rocket to Feb. 17 from Feb. 15 due to weather conditions, the space agency said on Tuesday.

A logo of Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is seen in front of a gate at the JAXA Chofu Aerospace Center Aerodrome Branch in Tokyo January 22, 2013. REUTERS/Issei Kato

"As a result of today's weather assessment, it is anticipated that weather conditions on the day of the launch will not be suitable, so changes will be made as a precautionary measure," it said in a statement.

The H3 rocket will carry a new land observation satellite, which will also be fitted with an experimental infrared sensor designed to detect missile launches.

(Reporting by Eimi Yamamitsu; Editing by Chang-Ran Kim)

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