Japan has completed the first successful flight test of an experimental reusable rocket, advancing its plans to develop lower-cost launch technology and strengthen its competitiveness in the global space industry.
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) launched the reusable prototype, known as RV-X, from its Noshiro Testing Center in northeastern Japan on Saturday.
During the brief demonstration, the rocket lifted off vertically, hovered in the air, shifted sideways and landed safely, completing the entire flight in under a minute.
JAXA said the mission achieved all of its planned objectives.
According to reusable rocket project manager Takashi Ito, the vehicle climbed to an altitude of 11 metres before moving 16 metres horizontally while maintaining a stable upright position, then returned for a controlled landing.
The test marks a significant milestone in Japan`s effort to develop reusable launch vehicles capable of cutting the cost of sending satellites and spacecraft into orbit, following a model similar to reusable rockets pioneered by SpaceX.
The new technology is expected to pave the way for a reusable successor to Japan`s H3 rocket, which is currently designed for a single mission.
The successful test came one day after China announced it had recovered the first stage of a rocket for the first time, highlighting growing competition among major space powers in reusable launch technology.
Japan introduced the H3 rocket as a lower-cost replacement for the H-2A launch vehicle, but officials believe further reductions in launch costs are essential to compete in the expanding commercial space market.
The Japanese government views a reliable and commercially viable launch system as strategically important for both its space ambitions and national security.
JAXA is developing the RV-X in partnership with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
The 7.3-metre-long rocket features a reinforced engine and four reusable landing legs designed to withstand repeated launches and landings.
Ito said the engine has already undergone 165 combustion tests, demonstrating its durability.
JAXA plans to continue development with higher-altitude test flights, aiming to reach about 100 metres in future missions while also collaborating with partners in France and Germany on reusable rocket technology.
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