A Major Step by Honda Towards Suborbital Launch Goals
Honda has successfully completed a key launch and landing test of its prototype reusable rocket, marking significant progress in its goal to achieve suborbital spaceflight by 2029. The surprise announcement came on Tuesday, following a test conducted by Honda R&D, the carmaker’s research division, in the space-focused town of Taiki in northern Japan.
The experimental vehicle reached an altitude of 271 metres before landing safely. Measuring 6.3 metres in length, the rocket was developed as part of Honda’s broader exploration into space technology.
While Honda has not confirmed plans to commercialise the rocket technology, the company stated that it will continue with fundamental research. The ultimate goal is to develop the capability for suborbital launches, which reach the edge of space without entering full orbit.
Exploring New Frontiers in Space Technology
Honda’s announcement builds on its 2021 decision to investigate reusable rocket technologies. This area of study, the company believes, has the potential to benefit daily life through satellite services that align with other Honda business segments.
Reusable launch vehicles have gained global traction in recent years, especially through the efforts of US firm SpaceX and its Falcon 9 rocket. Other companies, including Blue Origin and various startups in China and Europe, are also pursuing similar goals.
In Japan, the space industry is gaining momentum. Last month, Tokyo-based startup Innovative Space Carrier announced plans to test-launch a reusable rocket in the US this December. It will use an American-made engine for the flight.
Industry Momentum and Government Support
Honda’s push into space technology mirrors efforts by rival Toyota, which has backed rocket maker Interstellar Technologies. Toyota’s research arm recently invested in the Taiki-based company to help advance mass production of launch vehicles.
The Japanese government is also actively supporting the industry. It has created a multibillion-yen space venture fund aimed at expanding the country’s space economy. The target is to double the sector’s value to 8 trillion yen (approximately $55.2 billion) by the early 2030s.
With increasing interest from private companies and government backing, Japan’s space ambitions appear to be taking off—literally and figuratively.
with inputs from Reuters
