Japan launches new generation space rocket

The Epsilon rocket, the first new generation of space rockets has been successfully launched by Japan, yesterday afternoon.

Japan's space agency Jaxa held the rocket is half the size of the previous space rocket, M-5 and also costs half its forerunner's production cost. The M-5, was retired in 2006 because of financial reasons. At $37m Japan is hoping the design will make the country's space exploration missions more affordable.

The Epsilon rocket was launched from the south west of Japan as crowds gathered to watch. The event was also transmitted on the Internet.

The space vehicle is claimed to use artificial intelligence to perform safety checks. The launch team made of just eight people contrasts the 150 personnel needed for prior launches.

The Epsilon is also carrying a telescope making it possible for Jaxa to observe planets including Venus, Mars and Jupiter remotely. The space agency confirmed that the Sprint-A telescope was successfully released in orbit 1,000km from Earth's surface.