He Japanese Epsilon S rocket has exploded during a second engine test when it caught fire. This tragic event took place this Tuesday, November 26, when the solid fuel space vehicle suffered a breakdown 49 seconds after turning on during a ground test. causing a fire at the Tanegashima Space Center (Japan).
Although no one has been hurt and the fire was put out within an hour, the explosion damaged the facilities and the cause remains unclear. Furthermore, this setback calls into question Japan’s space program, as it could cause further delays in the schedule established by the country’s Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
At first, Epsilon S debut flight was scheduled for late March 2025depending on the success of this test. Consequently, after what happened, JAXA is forced to take “at least several months” and “take the necessary measures” to investigate the cause.
The Epsilon S rocket has already exploded in another test
The engine of Epsilon S rocket exploded in July last year during a fuel test. This incident occurred one minute after the ground test of the second stage engine began, in addition, the explosion caused a huge “roar” and sent a huge column of white smoke into the air.
Like the accident on November 26, no one was hurt and JAXA investigated what happened to find the cause.
On the other hand, the combustion test, to which it had to be submitted, It was a two minute test. in which a burn-out of the rocket’s second stage engines had to be carried out to measure data on the ignition and combustion characteristics, the performance of the nozzle section and the insulating material, as well as vibrations and shocks.
What is Japan’s objective with these rockets?
JAXA wants make active use of space thanks to the Epsilon S rockets, it also intends improve Japan’s competitiveness in the growing satellite launch market.
Until now, said space agency has been increasing the frequency of launches of its flagship rockets, in addition, manufactured the H3 heavy lift rocketwhich made its maiden voyage in February of this year.