The engine burn of Japan’s new Epsilon S rocket has failed again. The propulsion unit exploded shortly after launch.
Epsilon S is an updated version of the Epsilon rocker: a solid-propellant carrier designed to launch scientific satellites. It has a four-stage design and can launch more than 1,400 kg of cargo into low-Earth orbit and 600 kg of cargo into sun-synchronous orbit.
The first launch of Epsilon S was supposed to take place back in 2023. However, an explosion occurred during the burn. Subsequent investigation revealed that it was caused by a faulty ignition system.
After the accident, specialists from Japan’s aerospace agency JAXA made changes to the design of the power unit. However, its re-burn, conducted at the Tanegashima Space Center test site, again ended in a fire and explosion. No one was injured during the incident.
The second consecutive failure raises a legitimate question about the future of the new carrier. It is intended to improve Japan’s position in the growing satellite launch market.
Earlier we reported on why satellites and rocket stages in space sometimes explode.
Provided by Phys.org
