WAKAYAMA (Kyodo) -- Japanese startup Space One Co. said it has postponed the launch on Saturday of a rocket from a commercial spaceport in the western prefecture of Wakayama due to strong winds.

The startup aims to become the first Japanese firm to put a satellite into orbit, following a failed attempt in March. The launch could help to boost the space industry in Japan, which has lagged other major economies in the field.

The company, established in 2018 by private entities seeking to commercialize space delivery services by lowering costs and offering regular rocket flights, said it will attempt to launch the 18-meter-long solid-fuel Kairos No. 2 rocket on Sunday morning.

Many people had gathered around the spaceport under clear skies and the sudden postponement, announced about 30 minutes before the launch was scheduled, left some children in tears.

An executive of Space One said at a press conference, "We apologize to everyone who was looking forward to the launch. Next time, we will successfully complete the mission."