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Japan successfully launched its first H-2A rocket into space last week,
giving the country’s space technology a much-needed boost. Japan’s attempts to
become a big player in the satellite launching business have been dogged by
accidents and delays
(New Scientist, 18 August, p 10).
Two earlier test
launches ended in failure, destroying a commercial satellite. During Wednesday’s
launch, the H-2A’s engines fired without a hitch. “This was very much a
success,” said Toshihiko Kikuyama, spokesman for the National Space Development
Agency. “We should get bonus points.”