Japan's space agency early Wednesday postponed the launch of the crucial rocket due to fire near its launch pad on Tanegashima Island. The rocket was supposed to carry 5.3 tonnes of logistics for the astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS).

The H-2B rocket was to be launched at 3.30 am local time. The rocket was to carry Japan's space agency's cargo vehicle Kounotori-8 on the ISS. For the scientists present on this ISS, food, and water, as well as batteries and other necessary items for research work, were there.

Japan's space agency calls Kounotori-8 the world's largest space cargo vehicle. The launch of the launch was with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) of Japan. MHI is investigating the blaze. Efforts are also being made to ascertain whether there has been any damage to the rocket or launch pad by the fire.