Key takeaways
- Honda successfully launched and landed a reusable rocket, demonstrating advanced flight stability and landing capabilities.
- The experimental rocket reached an altitude of 271.4 meters and landed just 37 cm from the target.
- Honda aims for suborbital launch capability by 2029, leveraging its technological strengths in rocket research.
- The reusable rocket is designed for quick turnaround, contrasting with conventional expendable launch vehicles.
- Tests are conducted in a restricted area to ensure safety for the local community.
Honda successfully launched and landed an experimental reusable rocket on Tuesday at its facility in Taiki Town, Hokkaido Prefecture. The test was conducted at 16:15 local time, with the rocket independently developed by Honda. It reached an altitude of 271.4m before landing within 37cm of the target touchdown point.
The test, completed in 56.6 seconds, aimed to demonstrate key technologies for reusable rockets, including flight stability during ascent and descent and landing capability. “We are pleased that Honda has taken another step forward in our research on reusable rockets with the successful completion of this launch and landing test,” said Toshihiro Mibe, global CEO of Honda.
“We believe that rocket research is a meaningful endeavour that leverages Honda’s technological strengths,” he added. Honda’s rocket research, still in the fundamental phase, aims for a suborbital launch capability by 2029. Though no commercial plans have been confirmed, the company views the project as part of its broader goal to create sustainable space technologies.
The experimental rocket, measuring 6.3 meters in length and weighing 900 kg dry, was designed to confirm crucial elements for reusability. Unlike conventional expendable launch vehicles, this 85 cm rocket is designed to be reused in short intervals.
The test took place in a restricted area with a 1-kilometre radius, ensuring safety for the local community. Honda has been conducting similar tests since 2024, focusing on engine combustion and hovering technologies. All tests are carried out with full cooperation from local authorities and residents to ensure safety.
Honda’s rocket research is still in the fundamental stages, and while no commercialisation plans have been announced, the company aims to make significant technological progress in the coming years.
This test forms part of Honda’s broader strategy to contribute to sustainable transportation and space exploration, leveraging core technologies developed for its products and automated driving systems.
