Launch Photos: Japan's Epsilon Rocket, a Smart Booster for Space Flights

Epsilon Launch Vehicle Illustration

JAXA

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency hopes the new Epsilon Launch Vehicle will reduce the cost by a third of that for the former M-V Launch Vehicle. Illustration released Jan. 18, 2013.

Epsilon Rocket Liftoff Illustration

JAXA

An artist's illustration shows Japan's new rocket, Epsilon Launch Vehicle, launching. Image released March 25, 2013.

Epsilon Launch Vehicle Launching Point

JAXA

This image shows the launching point for Japan's new Epsilon Launch Vehicle, scheduled to lift off in August 2013. Image acquired November 28, 2012.

Epsilon Rocket Fairing System Examination

JAXA/Joe Nishizawa

An Epsilon rocket fairing system examination (air conditioning hose, electric cable) was conducted on April 23, 2013.

Small Space Science Platform for Rapid INvestigation and Test SPRINT-A

JAXA

Spectroscopic Planet Observatory for Recognition of Interaction of Atmosphere (SPRINT-A) is the world's first space telescope for remote observation of the planets such as Venus, Mars, and Jupiter from the orbit around the earth. Image released June 8, 2013.

The First Step: Epsilon Rocket Transported

JAXA

Japan's Epsilon rocket moves on a vehicle from Tanegashima Space Center (TNSC) to Shimama harbor on the evening of March 29-30, 2013.

Epsilon Launch Vehicle Hoisted Onto Barge

JAXA

Continuing its journey to the launch center, the Epsilon Launch Vehicle is hoisted on a barge, June 1, 2013.

Epsilon Rocket First Test Flight Launch Site

JAXA

Japan's Epsilon rocket, due to make its first test flight Aug. 27, 2013, is equipped with artificial intelligence to perform its own health checks before and during launch.

Epsilon Rocket Launch Site

JAXA

Japan's Epsilon rocket, due to make its first test flight Aug. 27, 2013, is equipped with artificial intelligence to perform its own health checks before and during launch.

Epsilon Rocket Seaside Launch Site

JAXA

Japan's Epsilon rocket, due to make its first test flight Aug. 27, 2013, is equipped with artificial intelligence to perform its own health checks before and during launch.

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Tom Chao
Tom Chao has contributed to SPACE.com as a producer and writer since 2000. As a writer and editor, he has worked for the Voyager Company, Time Inc. New Media, HarperCollins and Worth Publishers. He has a bachelor’s degree in Cinema Production from the University of Southern California, and a master’s degree from NYU’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study. To find out what his latest project is, you can follow Tom on Google+.