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Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency<\/p>\n
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\u2003On November 26, 2024 (JST), Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) conducted a static firing test of the Epsilon S second-stage motor at Tanegashima Space Center. During the test, a combustion anomaly occurred, resulting in an explosion of the motor.<\/p>\n
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\u2003We express our deepest regrets to the various individuals and organizational stakeholders including the local community, for not being able to meet the expectations, and for the inconvenience and concerns this incident may have caused.<\/p>\n
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\u2003As it follows a similar anomaly observed during a static firing test conducted in July 2023, JAXA is taking this matter seriously and has immediately established \u201cthe Investigation Team for the Combustion Anomaly during the Static Firing Test of the Epsilon S Second-Stage Motor\u201d on November 26, 2024, to determine the cause of the incident and formulate countermeasures. The team is headed by Mr. Okada, Director of the Space Transportation Technology Directorate, and comprises members of JAXA\u2019s senior management, including board members. <\/p>\n
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\u2003The Epsilon S launch vehicle, an enhanced version of the Epsilon series, is planned to be launched as \u201cEpsilon-7\u201d.<\/p>\n
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