Commercial Rocket Trying to Put Satellite Into Orbit Explodes Moments After Liftoff in Japan

Commercial Rocket Trying to Put Satellite Into Orbit Explodes Moments After Liftoff in Japan
Space One's Kairos rocket explodes after liftoff from a launch pad in Kushimoto, Wakayama prefecture, western Japan, on March 13, 2024. Kyodo News via AP
The Associated Press
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TOKYO—A commercial rocket trying to put a satellite into orbit was intentionally exploded shortly after liftoff Wednesday morning in central Japan following a problem that’s still under investigation.

Space One was aiming to be Japan’s first private sector success at putting a satellite into orbit.