Editorial

15:48 JST, December 24, 2025

The failed launch of the large H3 rocket has cast a dark shadow over the future of Japan’s space development. It is necessary to swiftly find out the cause and aim to resume launches as early as possible.

The No. 8 H3 rocket, jointly developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., was launched. As the second-stage engine of the rocket did not properly ignite after launch, it ended in failure.

The Cabinet Office’s Michibiki No. 5 positioning satellite, which was carried by the No. 8 H3 rocket, could not reach its intended orbit and is believed to have been lost.

An abnormal shock was recorded when the cover to protect the satellite separated from the........

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