Post date: Aug 27, 2013 12:9:35 PM
R Reports - And lift off... Well, not so fast.
Japan's first new rocket in 12 years failed to launch on Tuesday after an issue with its positioning was detected.
This is the second setback for the Epsilon rocket this month, dealing a potential blow to Japan's hopes of gaining a further foothold in the multi-billion dollar satellite launch industry.A spokesman for the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency said the organisation is looking into the problem.
The rocket was set to take off 1,000 kilometres south of Tokyo, carrying a telescope into space, with the event broadcast live on the internet and several television networks.
Its smaller size and sophisticated computer system can be assembled quickly and at a lower cost in terms of personnel and equipment.
There is no word as yet when the launch might be tried again.