A rocket that was supposed to become Japan’s first from the private sector to put a satellite into orbit exploded shortly after takeoff on Wednesday.

Online video showed the rocket called Kairos blasting off from Wakayama Prefecture, in central Japan, but exploding midair within seconds.

There were no reports of injuries, and the fire was brought under control, according to the local fire department.

Kairos carried an experimental government satellite that could temporarily replace intelligence satellites in orbit if they fall offline.

Tokyo-based startup Space One, which was behind the rocket launch, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The launch was already delayed several times, with the last postponement coming Saturday, after a ship was spotted in a risk area, according to Japanese media reports. (AP)