Japan's 10 Feb attempt to launch an X-ray detection satellite on an M5 booster failed when the first stage nozzle cracked during liftoff. The failed mission cost the Japanese $170 million. The Japanese space program has been noted for spectacular failures, and had to stop using the H-2 booster because of reliability problems. The Japanese are now waiting for the improved H-2A heavy booster to resume attempts to orbit large satellites.--Stephen V Cole