Japanese Space Startup Grapples with Second Consecutive Rocket Failure

In December 2024, the Japanese space startup Space One faced its second failed rocket launch within the same year. The Kairos No. 2 rocket, designed for deploying small satellites into orbit, encountered technical issues shortly after liftoff from Spaceport Kii in Wakayama Prefecture. The flight was abruptly terminated three minutes post-launch due to anomalies in its engine systems. Despite high hopes and meticulous preparations, the mission came to an unexpected halt.

Initial investigations suggest the malfunction originated in the rocket’s nozzle control system, leading to instability in its trajectory. As a safety precaution, an automatic self-destruct mechanism was activated to avoid potential hazards. The rocket, which had already ascended over 100 kilometers above the Earth’s surface, failed to achieve its orbital insertion. This marks the second significant setback for Space One, following the destruction of its first rocket, Kairos No. 1, in a similar scenario earlier in March.

The incident has sparked widespread discussions about the reliability of emerging private space technology. However, Space One’s leadership maintains optimism, emphasizing the value of the data collected during the mission. The company described the termination not as a failure, but as a pivotal learning experience. By analyzing the anomalies, the startup aims to refine its systems and improve the reliability of its subsequent launches.

Japan’s Space Vision: Balancing Progress and Risks

Space One, backed by prominent Japanese firms such as Canon Electronics, IHI Aerospace, and Shimizu Corporation, represents a major milestone in Japan’s efforts to nurture a thriving private space industry. The startup’s ambitious goal is to conduct up to 20 small-satellite launches annually by 2029, a target critical to solidifying Japan’s position as a competitive player in the global space race.

Nevertheless, the Kairos No. 2 incident underscores the considerable challenges of the industry. The setbacks have not only highlighted technical limitations but also the immense pressure to achieve success in a sector driven by innovation and precision. Japan’s domestic space landscape has struggled to establish consistency, with public and private projects encountering mixed outcomes.

For example, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) faced its own challenges with the H3 rocket earlier in 2024, which suffered delays and testing issues. Meanwhile, other regional competitors, including South Korea and India, have achieved key milestones, intensifying the competition for dominance in Asia’s space economy. Space One’s recent failure further illustrates the thin line between progress and uncertainty in the high-stakes space industry.

The Road Ahead for Space One

Despite the disappointment, Space One is determined to persist. Company representatives have announced plans to enhance the design of the Kairos rocket series, focusing on improving engine stability and refining their automated safety protocols. They also intend to accelerate their research and development cycle to avoid extended delays between launches.

This resilience is driven by the rapidly growing demand for small satellite deployments. As Earth observation, telecommunications, and scientific research increasingly depend on smaller and more cost-effective satellites, Space One sees a clear market opportunity. With perseverance and strategic adjustments, the company hopes to regain investor and public confidence.

Beyond technical enhancements, Space One is also reevaluating its partnerships and supply chains to reduce risks associated with production bottlenecks. The company’s leadership recognizes that the path to success involves not only overcoming engineering hurdles but also fostering collaboration across Japan’s burgeoning private aerospace sector.

References & Further Reading

• Yamaguchi, M. (2024). Japanese startup experiences second rocket failure after launch. Associated Press.
• Komiya, K. (2024). Japan’s private space industry faces hurdles as Space One rocket fails. Reuters.
• Japan’s space sector under pressure after recent setbacks. Times of India.