Japan's Space One 'Kairos' rocket explodes just after lift-off

TOKYO -- Space One's maiden rocket launch failed on Wednesday in a setback for the company as it looks to become the first private venture in Japan to put a satellite into orbit and secure a slice of the fast-growing space business.

A live broadcast showed the rocket blasting off amid huge clouds of white smoke. But about five seconds later, the rocket exploded, sending fiery debris into the surrounding mountainous landscape. Footage appeared to show a fire breaking out in the mountain and attempts to extinguish it.