Tech
Honda Successfully Tests Prototype Reusable Rocket in Japan
TOKYO, Japan — Honda has achieved a significant milestone in space technology with the successful launch and landing of its prototype reusable rocket on June 17. The company announced this unexpected achievement, marking a step toward its goal of suborbital spaceflight by 2029.
The experimental vehicle, measuring 6.3 meters (20.6 feet), reached an altitude of 271 meters (889 feet) during the test at its facility in Taiki, a northern Japanese town known for space research. Honda R&D, the research division of Honda, confirmed that the rocket landed just 37 centimeters from its target.
“Although Honda rocket research is still in the fundamental research phase, and no decisions have been made regarding commercialization of these rocket technologies, we will continue making progress with a goal of realizing a suborbital launch capability by 2029,” the company stated.
Initially, Honda announced plans in September 2021 to delve into space technologies, including reusable rockets. In 2024, Honda established a Space Development Division in the U.S. to collaborate with the American space industry and promote technology development.
The successful launch underlines Honda’s commitment to innovative technologies, as it also explores projects like testing an electrolysis system on the International Space Station and developing a regenerative fuel cell system.
Toshihiro Mibe, Honda’s Global CEO, expressed optimism about the progress, stating, “We believe that rocket research is a meaningful endeavor that leverages Honda’s technological strengths.”
Japan’s government supports the growing space industry, aiming to double its size to 8 trillion yen ($55.20 billion) by the early 2030s, establishing a multibillion-dollar fund to subsidize private space ventures.
As the commercial space race continues, Honda joins other automakers in exploring the potential of reusable rockets. Toyota recently announced an investment in a rocket maker to support mass production of launch vehicles.
