A rocket touted as Japan’s first from the private sector to go into orbit exploded shortly after takeoff on Wednesday, Mar. 13. Livestreamed video of the launch showed the rocket called Kairos blasting off from Wakayama Prefecture, central Japan, a mountainous area filled with trees, but exploding midair within seconds. A huge plume of smoke engulfed the area, and flames shot up in some spots. Tokyo-based startup Space One, behind the rocket launch, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (March 13, 2024)