Japan aborts launch of 1st H3 rocket carrying defense sensor

By MARI YAMAGUCHI
Associated Press

TOKYO (AP) — Japan’s space agency has aborted the launch of the first of its new flagship series H3 rockets, which was carrying an observation satellite also fitted with an experimental infrared sensor that could detect missile launches. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency livestream and TV footage showed white smoke billowing from its main engine. But a pair of auxiliary rockets didn’t ignite, according to an announcement at the launch site. The agency is investigating the cause of the problem and no further details were immediately known. The H3 rocket was developed with $1.5 billion as a successor to the H-2A rocket.