Islam Times - Japan's Space Agency Halts Epsilon S Rocket Engine Test after Fire

Islam Times - A fire at Japan's Tanegashima Space Center during an engine test for the Epsilon S rocket has forced the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to halt testing, raising concerns over potential delays to the rocket's debut launch, originally scheduled for March 2024.

Japan's space programme faced another setback on Tuesday when a fire broke out during an engine combustion test for the Epsilon S rocket, prompting JAXA to abort the operation. The incident occurred at the Tanegashima Space Center in southwestern Japan, delaying the rocket's progress as its debut launch deadline approaches.

Footage from public broadcaster NHK captured the explosion and subsequent blaze shortly after the test began. JAXA reported encountering a "combustion abnormality" just 49 seconds into the test but confirmed no injuries or external facility damage.

"JAXA will conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the problem and consider countermeasures," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said during a press briefing. He emphasized the strategic importance of rocket development for Japan's space programme.

The Epsilon S, developed in partnership with heavy machinery maker IHI (7013.T), represents the next generation of JAXA's solid-fuel small rocket series. IHI shares fell by as much as 6% in Tokyo trading following the incident. An IHI Aerospace spokesperson confirmed that investigations are underway.

The rocket's maiden flight, tentatively set for the fiscal year ending March 31, is now uncertain, compounded by previous testing failures. A similar engine test in July 2023 failed due to ignition system thermal damage, while a 2022 launch attempt also ended in failure.

Meanwhile, JAXA's larger H3 rocket, built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (7011.T), has seen mixed results. After a failed inaugural launch last year, it successfully completed three missions in 2024, securing commercial contracts, including with France-based satellite operator Eutelsat (ETL.PA).

Japan's ambitions to compete in the global rocket market hinge on the success of both the H3 and Epsilon S rockets as it seeks to rival established American players like SpaceX and Rocket Lab (RKLB.O).

Separately, IHI-backed private venture Space One is preparing for the second launch of its Kairos small rocket on December 14 after its initial attempt in March ended in an explosion. If successful, it would mark Japan's first private satellite launch.

The Epsilon S fire adds pressure on Japan's space agency as it works to maintain the timeline for satellite missions and sustain its position in the competitive global launch industry.