Japan destroys new H3 rocket in space after engine failure - in pictures

An H3 rocket carrying a land observation satellite lifts off from Tanegashima space port in Japan. Reuters
An H3 rocket carrying a land observation satellite lifts off from Tanegashima space port in Japan. Reuters
Japan's space agency ordered the rocket to self-destruct minutes after launch. EPA
Japan's space agency ordered the rocket to self-destruct minutes after launch. EPA
The self-destruct command came after one of the second-stage engines failed to ignite. Reuters
The self-destruct command came after one of the second-stage engines failed to ignite. Reuters
The failed attempt, which follows an aborted launch last month, represents a big blow to Japan's space agency. EPA
The failed attempt, which follows an aborted launch last month, represents a big blow to Japan's space agency. EPA
The space agency said the self-destruct signal was sent after it became clear that the rocket could not complete its mission. Reuters
The space agency said the self-destruct signal was sent after it became clear that the rocket could not complete its mission. Reuters