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The second failure in a row raises concern about the progress of
the Epsilon S rocket, whose debut is expected for next year.
The test was conducted inside of the restricted area at Japan's
Tanegashima Space Center in southwestern Japan, and the Japan
Aerospace Exploration Agency is investigating, Chief Cabinet
Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters.
The fire was followed by an explosion and plumes of white smoke.
Tuesday's failure comes just over a year after the explosion
last year of the same Epsilon S engine during a test, according
to JAXA.
Last year's explosion was related to damage to the ignition
systems of the engine and JAXA has since taken the necessary
steps, the agency has said.
“Development of flagship rockets such as Epsilon S is extremely
important from the perspective of ensuring autonomy of Japan's
space development,” Hayashi told reporters. “JAXA will
thoroughly investigate and take steps.”
The Epsilon S rocket is meant to improve Japan's position in the
growing satellite launch market and its debut flight was slated
for early next year.
Japan's larger H3 rocket, failed in its debut launch in February
2023 but has since made three consecutive successful flights,
most recently earlier in November.
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