Japan Successfully Tests Reusable Rocket Prototype
Japan's space agency JAXA announced a successful test flight of the reusable rocket RV-X experimental body on July 11. The flight was the first of its kind for the vehicle.
Japan's Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) announced on July 11 the successful test flight and recovery of its reusable rocket experimental body, RV-X. The test took place at the Noshiro Testing Center in northeastern Japan.
During the flight, the RV-X experimental body ascended 11 meters, maintained an upright posture, then moved horizontally 16 meters before landing. The flight lasted approximately 40 seconds and focused on flight control. The RV-X is about 7.3 meters long and 1.8 meters in diameter, powered by an engine using liquid oxygen and hydrogen.
The test is considered a significant step for Japan in its efforts to reduce launch costs. Developing reusable rocket technology is a key part of Japan's strategy to lower the cost of placing payloads into orbit and to support future large rocket programs, including successors to the H3 rocket.
JAXA will analyze the flight data to confirm the test's success and will inspect the vehicle's condition to determine if it can be used for a second test flight.