A Japanese startup’s second attempt at launching its solid-fuel rocket ended in chaos, as Kairos plummeted towards the ground just minutes after liftoff. A Japanese privately funded space venture suffered a setback with the launch failure, following a string of high-profile rocket tests in recent months that had raised hopes for the industry’s growth.
Japan’s private space company Area One successfully launched its Kairos rocket on Wednesday morning from the Spaceport Kii facility in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture, marking a significant milestone for the corporation. The rocket initially appeared to be performing flawlessly, but problems soon started to arise. Approximately 2 minutes into liftoff, Kairos suddenly exhibited signs of impaired angle control, initiating a downward spiral that threatened to compromise its trajectory. During a post-launch briefing, Area One Director Mamoru Endo informed reporters that the rocket self-destructed due to anomalies detected in its first-stage engine nozzle management and trajectory.
Taiwan’s Area Company dispatched five mini-satellites on behalf of Taiwanese organizations as well as three Japanese firms—Lagrapo, Area Cubics, and Terra Area—plus one anonymous client.
Although the startup’s launch vehicle successfully cleared the tower in Wakayama prefecture, it unfortunately exploded just moments later. The rocket’s autonomous self-destruct mechanism was triggered approximately 5 seconds into flight due to an unexpected deviation from planned parameters. Kairos transported an innovative satellite television broadcasting system to the Japanese government.
The rocket, equipped with solid-fuel engines and a liquid-fuel post-boost stage, is engineered to transport payloads of up to 550 kilograms (1,212 pounds) to low Earth orbit. Area One aims to rival industry leaders SpaceX and Rocket Lab by launching satellites into orbit at a faster and more affordable rate. Its 59-foot-tall rocket is designed for efficient delivery of payloads. The company plans to launch 30 rockets annually by the 2030s, according to Kyodo Information. While initially appearing achievable, Area One may require slightly more time to fully grasp the tempo, reminiscent of the pace found in partnership with Kairos, akin to Rocket Lab’s reliable Electron.
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“We do not view this occasion as a failure,” Area One President Masakazu Toyoda told reporters following the launch failure. “We believe that the insights and knowledge acquired will be incredibly valuable and anticipate they will be beneficial in tackling future challenges.”
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