Space One Co. Plans Second Rocket Launch After First Explosion
Space One Co., a Japanese space startup, plans to launch its second rocket in December, following the unfortunate explosion of its first rocket shortly after liftoff in March. This information was revealed by Mamoru Endo, a director of the company, during a space symposium organized by the Wakayama prefectural government on August 25th.
Endo stated that Space One Co. has identified the cause of the explosion and is confident that they can safely resume launches of their small rocket, named Kairos. The second launch attempt will also take place from Space Port Kii in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture, although detailed schedules are yet to be announced.
The inaugural launch of Kairos was highly anticipated, as it was expected to become Japan's first private-sector rocket to successfully send an artificial satellite into orbit. However, the mission ended in disaster when the rocket exploded just five seconds after liftoff on March 13th. The explosion destroyed the rocket and the Cabinet Secretariat's satellite it was carrying.
The name Kairos signifies the "Kii-based Advanced and Instant Rocket System," according to Space One, which is headquartered in Tokyo. The company remains committed to its goal of providing reliable and affordable launch services for small satellites.