Japan's Space Agency Launches Test of Reusable Rocket Technology
WHO:
Phys.org - Japan's space agency is involved in the test flight of the reusable rocket.
WHAT:
AP - The RV-X rocket lifted off, hovered, and moved horizontally before landing during its less than one-minute flight.
AP - The rocket rose 11 meters (36 feet) and moved horizontally 16 meters (52 feet) while keeping its upright position before landing.
AP - The RV-X is 1.8 meters (5.9 feet) in diameter and 7.3 meters (23.9 feet) long, equipped with an engine that has withstood 165 combustion tests.
Phys.org - Japan's experimental reusable rocket took off and safely landed in its first test flight.
ABC News World - Japan has conducted a first test flight for its reusable rocket.
WHERE:
Phys.org - The test flight took place in Japan.
WHEN:
Phys.org - The first test flight occurred on a Saturday.
WHY:
AP - The Japanese government states that a stable, commercially competitive transport capability is key to the country’s space program and national security.
FUTURE PLANS:
AP - JAXA plans to send the RV-X rocket to a higher altitude of about 100 meters (218 feet) in future test flights.
Phys.org - Japan seeks to achieve reusable rocket technology to cut launch costs and compete in the global space market dominated by SpaceX.
HOW:
AP - The test flight was livestreamed by the NVS, a group of space fans.
Phys.org - The rocket was launched and successfully landed as part of the test flight.
(UPDATED July 11, 2026 19:20 UTC)
The RV-X rocket successfully lifted off, hovered, and moved horizontally before landing during a test flight that lasted less than one minute. During this flight, the rocket rose 11 meters and traveled 16 meters while maintaining its upright position, showcasing its capabilities as it measures 1.8 meters in diameter and 7.3 meters long. Looking ahead, JAXA plans to send the RV-X to a higher altitude of about 100 meters in future test flights, emphasizing the importance of a stable transport capability for Japan's space program and national security.
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(UPDATED July 11, 2026 07:39 UTC)
Japan's space agency has successfully conducted its first test flight of an experimental reusable rocket, which took off and landed safely. This significant milestone aims to advance reusable rocket technology, helping Japan reduce launch costs and compete in the global space market, currently led by SpaceX. The test flight took place in Japan on a Saturday, marking an important step in the country's aerospace ambitions.