Japanese rocket crashes seconds after launch

MOMO-2, a rocket developed by Interstellar Technologies Inc., a Japanese start-up company, crashed and exploded seconds after its launch on Saturday in Japan’s northern prefecture of Hokkaido.

The rocket, measuring 10 meters and weighing 1,150 kilograms was meant to go up to as high as 100 kilometers into space. There were no injuries, according to Japanese media.

Last July, the MOMO-1 rocket lifted off to as high as 20 kilometers before its engine stopped, sending the rocket plunging into the ocean.

Interstellar Technologies Inc. is a Japanese venture that utilizes commercially-available components to create low-cost, mini rockets.

(Source: Reuters)