Wakayama, Japan – The highly anticipated launch of the Kairos-2 rocket was postponed for the second consecutive day on December 15 due to strong winds, disappointingly impacting the many onlookers who had gathered at the launch site. The rocket, developed by the venture company Space One, was originally set to launch from the Spaceport Kii, located in Kushimoto, at 11 AM.
Officials had made last-minute announcements about the postponement, leaving around 2,000 rocket fans disheartened but hopeful for future launches. The new target launch date has been rescheduled to December 18, which is expected to allow the rocket to take flight without the interference of adverse weather conditions.
One of the attending fans, 13-year-old Sora Komiya from Kanagawa Prefecture, expressed his disappointment as he had traveled with his family to watch the rocket ascend. “I wanted to see the rocket going to space. But, it’s not failure yet, so I hope they can launch the next time,” he said, embodying the sentiment many felt.
Governor Shuhei Kishimoto conveyed similar support and optimism, stating, “I hope we can see it try again, and we’re waiting with anticipation.” Mayor Katsumasa Tajima of Kushimoto echoed these sentiments, wishing for the success of the launch for the sake of its fans.
This delay is not the first challenge for the Kairos rocket, which faced initial setbacks prior to its first launch earlier this year when the first prototype exploded shortly after takeoff. Nonetheless, the Kairos-2 rocket is equipped with five small satellites intended for deployment at approximately 500 kilometers altitude. Successful completion of this mission would mark Japan's first solo commercial rocket launch.
Onlookers at the designated viewing area were visibly disappointed when the announcement was made to delay the launch again. Many had traveled from far and wide to be present, with some having camped out for two days hoping to witness the event. A woman from Hiroshima, who appeared teary-eyed, remarked, “I love rockets and have become accustomed to delays, but two days in a row is tough. I just hope they keep trying with the private sector’s efforts.”
At another viewing site, about 2 kilometers from the launch pad, heavy emotions permeated the atmosphere as attendees processed the news of yet another delay. A 50-year-old man from Iwade City who had come to see the launch for the second day expressed his grievances, saying, “I thought today would be the day, so I’m really disappointed. I just want them to keep trying.”
The experience of delays sparked discussions among spectators about the importance of safety and conditions during rocket launches. Many attendees, including high school students who had worked on the design of satellites onboard the rocket, acknowledged the necessity of making cautious decisions to secure the future of their projects. “While it’s disappointing, I believe carefully handling these situations is important for success. I’m excited to eventually see our satellites take off,” said Kaito Yao, one of the students involved.
Local businesses embraced the event, setting up stalls featuring merchandise and food, creating an ambiance of community spirit even amid the disappointment. Vendors selling themed items, local delicacies, and souvenirs catered to roughly 2,000 visitors, serving as more than just viewers; they became active participants supporting the rocket and the community.
Space One’s Kozo Abe announced their commitment to rescheduling, ensuring they would proceed with the December 18 launch attempt if weather conditions allow. “Sometimes the weather doesn’t reveal itself until the last moment. I truly apologize to those who have been eagerly waiting,” he commented. Participants of the launch and those involved with the preparation of the Kairos-2 expressed gratitude for the community's continued support.
Despite the setbacks, those associated with the project and the local community are rallying together to stay hopeful for the next launch. The Kairos-2, if successful, has the potential to usher Japan's private space industry toward renewed prominence, showing resilience even when the winds are unfavorable.
With the 18th drawing closer, everyone is left with bated breath, eagerly waiting for what could mark a historic milestone for the burgeoning private aerospace industry.
