An explosion occurred during the Epsilon S rocket engine test by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) at Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture. The fire broke out 49 seconds into the test, followed by the explosion, but no casualties were reported. JAXA has launched an investigation into the cause.

The Epsilon series, designed to lower launch costs and enhance efficiency, succeeded the M-V rockets for satellite launches. A similar explosion occurred last year during a test in Akita Prefecture, also without injuries. The Epsilon S aims to bolster Japan’s competitiveness in satellite launches.