Humans have been launching rockets to space for nearly 80 years, yet it feels as though we’ve only hit the tip of the iceberg in terms of what’s possible. These upcoming rockets provide a promising glimpse of what we can expect during the next era of spaceflight.
Japan’s H3 rocket failed to reach orbit on Monday, so instead of celebrating the debut of a flagship launch vehicle, Japan’s space agency is scrambling to understand what went wrong and what it means for Japanese space policy going forward. There’s also a backlash afoot, with a former astronaut rightly asking why a…
Space is hard—even in 2023. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, instead of celebrating the launch of its new H3 rocket, is now trying to figure out what went wrong during Monday’s failed flight.
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.
The stage is set for an unpiloted rescue vehicle to launch to the International Space Station, in an important mission that will allow three astronauts to breathe a bit easier once their lifeboat finally arrives.
