Japan launches H3 rocket powered solely by liquid-fuel engines

Japan successfully launched an H3 rocket powered only by liquid-fuel engines for the first time from the Tanegashima Space Center in south-western Japan. The rocket carried six small satellites into orbit, including Umitsubame, designed to observe the oceans, and Shiraito, which will test technology for removing space debris. The launch had been postponed due to unfavourable weather and flew with three main liquid-fuel engines and no solid-fuel boosters, a configuration said to be lighter and less expensive. This launch marks a boost for Japan's space programme after recent setbacks.