Private Rocket Self-Destructs After Liftoff in Wakayama

Mar 06, 2026 | News On Japan

Wakayama, Mar 06, 2026 (News On Japan) - A small rocket launched by Japanese space venture Space One was destroyed mid-flight on March 5th after aborting its mission shortly after liftoff from a private launch facility in Wakayama Prefecture.

Space One, a Tokyo-based space business company, launched its small rocket Kairos No.3 on the morning of March 5th from Spaceport Kii, a private rocket launch site in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture. However, 68.8 seconds after liftoff the flight was terminated, and the rocket autonomously triggered a self-destruct sequence based on its onboard judgment.

The mission had aimed to achieve Japan’s first successful satellite insertion into orbit conducted entirely by a private company. The objective was not achieved, resulting in a launch failure.

The setback marks the third consecutive failure for the Kairos rocket series, following unsuccessful launches of its first and second vehicles.

Source: Kyodo

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