Japan space agency rocket 'explodes' during engine test

Japan's Epsilon S space rocket has exploded during engine testing at a site in the country's north, multiple news agencies have reported.

The Epsilon-3 rocket. Image AP

A Japanese space agency's rocket has reportedly exploded during an engine test.

The Epsilon S rocket blew up at the Noshiro testing site in northern Japan, multiple media reported on Friday.

The rocket exploded about one minute into the testing of the second stage of engine ignition, Kyodo news agency reported.

No injuries have been reported at the testing site, Kyodo said, citing the space agency.