TOKYO, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on Thursday conducted a second-stage engine combustion test for its new solid-fuel small rocket Epsilon S.
Following two consecutive failed tests in 2023 and 2024, JAXA replaced the engine and lowered the rocket's payload capacity target.
The ground combustion test began at 9:00 a.m. local time at the Tanegashima Space Center in the southwestern prefecture of Kagoshima. A livestream on JAXA's official social media account showed flames and smoke erupting after ignition. The test lasted about two minutes, achieving its planned objectives.
The Epsilon S is an upgraded version of the conventional Epsilon small solid-fuel rocket, developed to launch small satellites. Japan hopes that it will become a next-generation flagship launch vehicle alongside the H3 rocket.
However, the newly developed E-21 engine for the Epsilon S exploded during second-stage combustion tests in July 2023 and November 2024.
For the latest test, JAXA replaced the E-21 engine with an M-35a engine, which was adapted from an older motor used on the original Epsilon series. As a result, the Epsilon S's payload capacity to a sun-synchronous orbit will be reduced from the previously planned 600 kg or more to 400 kg.
JAXA plans to launch the Epsilon S demonstration vehicle in fiscal 2026. ■
