Japan's H3 Rocket Suffers Major Setback, Fails During 7th Launch Attempt
Japan's seventh attempt to launch its next-generation H3 rocket has failed. JAXA reported a 'premature end of engine burn' in the second stage, leading to the mission's failure. The incident is a significant setback for Japan's space program.
Second-Stage Engine Failure Ends Mission Prematurely
Japan's ambitious H3 rocket program has hit another major snag. The nation's space agency, JAXA, announced on Monday, December 22, 2025, that the seventh attempt to launch the next-generation vehicle failed mid-flight.
According to the agency, the failure occurred approximately 30 minutes after a seemingly successful liftoff from the Tanegashima Space Center. The rocket, which was carrying the Michibiki No. 5 satellite, suffered a critical anomaly when its second-stage engine "experienced a premature end of engine burn." JAXA stated it is now investigating the precise cause of the malfunction.
The H3 is Japan's successor to the reliable H-IIA rocket, designed to be more cost-effective and competitive in the global commercial launch market. However, its development has been plagued by delays and previous failures. This latest incident is a significant blow to Japan's goals of securing independent and commercially viable access to space.
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