Update: 9:35 p.m. ET: The H3 rocket left the launch pad on time, but an apparent failure with the second stage engines forced controllers to issue a self-destruct command. More here.
The H3 remains on the ground following a launch abort at seemingly the last possible moment. Ground controllers said the main engine ignited, but not the solid rocket boosters. The cause is not yet clear, nor when JAXA might re-attempt the launch.
Following a series of technical delays, Japan’s H3 rocket is set to make its much-anticipated debut this week. Here’s what you need to know about the medium-lift rocket and its inaugural mission.