Japanese space ambitions under pressure: Space One struggles with second failure

Japanese pioneers in the space industry have once again faced a setback. The emerging startup Space One, supported by the technology giant Canon, has failed for the second time to successfully complete the launch of its rocket. This renewed failure raises further questions regarding the future and competitiveness of the commercial space industry in Japan. The Kairos rocket, known as a lightweight innovation and loaded with five satellites, was instructed to self-destruct just moments after launch. The incident occurred on Wednesday at around 11 a.m. local time from Space Port Kii, a launch base approximately 420 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. These developments are particularly critical as they highlight the challenges facing Japan's private space players. Despite the obstacles, Canon's support remains a solid foundation for Space One. However, the case vividly demonstrates how difficult and unpredictable the path to commercial orbit can be, even for well-supported startups. The hope to withstand the increasing competition in the space sector remains a significant but challenging endeavor.