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Japan Rocket Launch Postponed Due To Mechanical Glitch
By Reuters
posted: 12:30 pm ET
22 August 2001
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Japan Rocket Launch Postponed on Mechanical Glitch TOKYO (Reuters) -- The maiden launch of Japan's new next-generation H-2A rocket, originally set for the weekend, has been postponed due to mechanical problems, officials said on Wednesday. The move is likely to cast a new shadow over Japan's troubled space program, already clouded by the failed launch of two prototypes and the specter of funding cuts from a reformist government keen to stem wasteful public spending. The launch had already been postponed once from February due to engine trouble. A spokesman at the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA) said the launch scheduled for Saturday was put off until August 28 or later after problems developed with a valve on one of the rocket's engines. "The problem is being investigated by the manufacturer, and if all goes well we hope to be able to reschedule the launch for August 28,'' he said. "It is possible, however, that repairs will take longer than expected, forcing the launch to take place after the 28th," he added. "We cannot say anything with certainty at this time.'' Investigations into the problem have been delayed by powerful Typhoon Pabuk, which is currently raging across central Japan and disrupting air, sea and rail traffic. Japan's space program, slammed by critics for its high price tag, has been beset by numerous troubles. A mishap in 1999 resulted in the loss of a 10 billion yen prototype, while another unsuccessful launch the year before cost 60 billion yen. The future of the space program rests on the successful launch of the H-2A, as another failure could lead to funding cuts from Japan's government. With the economy on the brink of recession, the government is determined to reduce unneeded public spending by folding cash-guzzling government agencies, and NASDA is one of them.
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