Honda R&D Co., Ltd., the research and development arm of Honda Motor Co., has completed its first successful takeoff and landing experiment with a reusable rocket test vehicle. This milestone marks Honda’s official entry into the space technology arena, advancing its ambitions to develop a sustainable and reusable launch system.
Take-off and landing experiment
The test took place at Honda’s dedicated facility in Taiki Town, Hokkaido, reaching an altitude of 271.4 meters with a total flight time of 56.6 seconds. The vehicle, which measures 6.3 meters in length and weighs 900 kg dry (1,312 kg when fully fueled), landed with remarkable precision, just 37 centimeters from its target point.
The primary goal of the experiment was to validate the core technologies needed for reusable rocket systems—specifically, ascent and descent stability, as well as controlled vertical landing. Unlike traditional expendable launch vehicles (ELVs), reusable launch vehicles (RLVs) are designed for repeated use, offering a more cost-efficient and sustainable approach to space access.
“This is a critical step forward,” said Toshihiro Mibe, President and Representative Executive Officer of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. “The success of this test demonstrates the value of applying Honda’s core technologies to new domains. Our rocket research embodies our spirit of challenge and commitment to creating new value in both time and space.”
The test was conducted under strict safety protocols, coordinated in partnership with local authorities and residents. A 1-kilometer alert zone was established, with controlled access points, signage, and personnel deployed to maintain public safety. Flight parameters were carefully limited to ensure the rocket remained within the designated safety boundaries, and the vehicle was outfitted with fail-safe systems to prevent deviation.
Honda began testing reusable rocket engines and hover capabilities at this Hokkaido site in 2024. The June 17 test was its first full-scale vertical flight and landing trial.
Honda’s exploration into reusable rocket technology aligns with its broader vision announced in 2021—aiming to expand human freedom through innovations in time, place, and ability. Alongside its work in electric mobility and autonomous driving, Honda is developing renewable energy systems, space robotics, and satellite-compatible technologies.
The reusable rocket initiative was inspired by a young engineer’s dream to build rockets using Honda’s proven strengths in combustion, control, and mobility systems. The long-term goal is to launch suborbital missions by 2029, contributing to the growing demand for small satellite launches and global data services.
In an era increasingly reliant on space-based data—from climate monitoring to communication infrastructure—Honda sees the development of a reusable rocket system as a way to support both industry and society.
Though still in the early stages of development, Honda’s rocket project reflects a growing trend among automotive and tech companies exploring aerospace solutions. The company has not yet confirmed plans for commercialization but intends to continue refining its technologies as part of a larger effort to make space more accessible.
“As society moves toward connected mobility and data-driven services, we believe reusable rockets can be an enabler of future possibilities,” said Mibe. “We will keep pushing boundaries to make that future real.”
Honda’s foray into space not only diversifies its innovation portfolio but also signals a new chapter in Japan’s commercial space endeavors.
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