The H3 rocket, operated by the Japan Aerospace Agency, failed in its attempt to place a satellite into orbit due to the premature shutdown of a motor.

The Japanese H3 rocket, operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), failed on Monday in its attempt to place a geolocation satellite into orbit after the second stage engine shut down prematurely. The launch took place at 10:51 local time from the Tanegashima Space Center, and the mission was to place the sixth satellite in the 'Michibiki' system, aimed at improving geolocation services in Japan. JAXA announced that it has opened an investigation to determine the cause of the failure, which occurred after previous delays for technical reasons.

The 'Michibiki' system is crucial for providing essential data, including evacuation orders in the event of natural disasters. The H3 rocket, built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, had a failed inaugural launch in 2023 but subsequently completed six flights. The current failure could delay the Japanese space program, considering that investigations often take months.