Japan’s seventh H3 rocket mission failed when the second stage engine shut down prematurely, preventing the Michibiki 5 (QZS-5) navigation satellite from reaching its planned orbit.

The launch took place from Tanegashima Space Center on Dec. 21, carrying the 4,800-kilogram satellite intended for Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS), which complements GPS and serves the Asia-Oceania region.

The H3 rocket, developed by JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, had previously achieved five consecutive successful launches after a failed debut in March 2023.

QZSS currently has four operational satellites but aims to expand to 11, highlighting the significance of Michibiki 5, Space.com has reported.

JAXA has launched a task force led by agency chief Hiroshi Yamakawa to investigate the anomaly and issued an apology to stakeholders and the public.