Global Space: Rescheduled Launches and Explosive Setbacks

Recent updates in science include India's Agnikul Cosmos calling off its maiden rocket launch for the fourth time due to technical issues. North Korea's new fuel-powered satellite launch ended in an explosion, demonstrating advancements despite failures. China plans additional rocket launches in the Yellow Sea by month-end.

Following is a summary of current science news briefs.

India's space startup calls off maiden rocket launch for a fourth time

India's Agnikul Cosmos called off a test flight of its first rocket on Tuesday seconds before it was due to launch - the fourth such cancellation in the last three months. Launches of India's second privately built rocket, and first using a combination of gas and liquid fuel, had been aborted three times before because of technical issues, including one flight that was cancelled about 90 seconds before lift-off.

North Korea says it tried new fuel in satellite launch that ended in fiery explosion

North Korea's latest satellite launch exploded in a fireball before dropping into the Yellow Sea just minutes after lifting off, but analysts say the attempt showcased new strides in the nuclear-armed country's race for space. North Korea said its latest attempt to launch a military reconnaissance satellite failed in flight on Monday during the rocket's first stage, which featured a new "liquid oxygen and petroleum engine".

China to conduct rocket launches in Yellow Sea on May 28-31

China's maritime safety administration said it will conduct rocket launches in the Yellow Sea on May 28-31, according to a statement. Ships will not be allowed to enter the area during the launches, the statement said on Monday.