Space agency in Japan temporarily halts Epsilon S rocket engine test following fire incident.
Tokyo, Japan - A Setback for Japan's Space Program
In an unexpected turn of events, Japan's space agency, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), had to scrap its engine test for the Epsilon S rocket on November 26, due to a fire at the test site. This unfortunate incident could potentially push the rocket's debut launch beyond the initial March-end target, causing more delays in the national space program.
Witnesses reported an explosion and a fiery blaze shortly after the ground combustion test started at the Tanegashima Space Center in southwestern Japan, as captured by public broadcaster NHK.
JAXA confirmed the engine test faced a "combustion abnormality," 49 seconds after ignition. They added that there was no sign of injury or damage to the external facility. The chief cabinet secretary, Yoshimasa Hayashi, emphasized the urgency of investigating the issue to safeguard and nurture Japan's self-reliant space program.
JAXA partnered with the aerospace unit of heavy machinery maker IHI to develop Epsilon S, the latest addition to the Epsilon solid-fuel small rocket series. The shares of IHI took a hit after the news, falling as much as 6%, and the company is investigating the cause.
The timeline for the Epsilon S's debut flight has been up in the air, depending on the success of the engine test. But this mishap could set it back, particularly considering previous failures that triggered investigations and postponed space missions and satellite launch plans.
For instance, in July of last year, an Epsilon S engine test failed due to thermal damage to its ignition systems. That setback followed a launch failure in 2022.
JAXA's larger flagship rocket, H3, built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, faced its own challenges with a failed launch last year, but has succeeded in three launches this year, sending Japanese satellites into orbit and securing orders from French satellite operator Eutelsat.
These rockets, H3 and Epsilon S, are crucial for JAXA's ambitious plan to develop cost-competitive rockets in the face of rising competition from American commercial space providers such as SpaceX and Rocket Lab.
In the private sector, IHI-backed Space One is preparing for the second launch of its Kairos small rocket on Dec. 14 after the first flight ended in explosion in March. The goal is to become the first Japanese business to send a satellite into orbit.
As of now, there are no recent updates about the situation regarding the Epsilon S rocket. To stay informed, it's advisable to keep an eye on JAXA's official communications or news releases.
Due to the combustion abnormality during the engine test, the debut launch of the Epsilon S rocket might be further delayed, affecting Japan's self-reliant space program. This unfortunate incident not only impacts JAXA but also its partners like IHI, whose shares took a hit after the news.
