Japan Tests Prototype Reusable Rocket With 10-Meter Flight

Japan’s space agency completed the first liftoff and landing test of a reusable rocket prototype on Saturday. The vehicle reached about 10 meters in altitude and returned to the ground after a 40-second flight. The test took place at the agency’s site in Noshiro, Akita Prefecture. Officials said the rocket performed the sequence without incident.

The agency will review flight data to confirm full success.

A project lead stated the team obtained useful information and expressed relief at the outcome. Most rockets are designed for single use. The first stage is the most expensive component, and reusable designs aim to reduce launch costs.

SpaceX has operated a reusable Falcon 9 rocket since 2017.

A Chinese reusable rocket achieved its first landing on Friday. Japan is working to strengthen the competitiveness of its domestic rocket sector after the H3 rocket launched successfully in June.