Honda’s newest initiative is literally reaching new heights.
On Wednesday, the Japanese automaker revealed that it has successfully developed its own “experimental reusable rocket,” which has completed a landing. According to company representatives, the roughly 21-foot tall booster achieved an altitude of 890 feet before landing vertically.
These test flights indicate that the global landscape of space operations is expanding towards the commercial sector, moving beyond a handful of government agencies.
While Honda has not yet shared specific plans on how it aims to commercialize its rocket technology or the intended applications of its boosters, the initiative is part of Honda’s commitment to “sustainable transport.”
“We view rocket research as a substantial endeavor that leverages Honda’s technological capabilities,” stated Toshihiro Mibe, Honda’s global CEO in a statement.
The test launch and landing occurred on Tuesday at a Honda facility located in Taika Town, Hokkaido Prefecture. The flight duration was 56.6 seconds, with the rocket landing within approximately 15 inches of the designated target area.
Honda aims to achieve a suborbital launch by 2029. This type of flight does not achieve a complete orbit around Earth, but reaches the edge of space at altitudes exceeding 65 miles.
Although Honda initially announced its foray into the space industry in 2021, details about ongoing projects or potential applications remain scarce. The company indicated that this endeavor builds on other Honda initiatives, including efforts related to automated driving systems.
“We are witnessing an exponential increase in data consumption, and the proliferation of satellites has raised expectations for utilizing data systems in space,” noted a company representative in a news release. “Considering this trend, the demand for satellite launch rockets is anticipated to rise significantly in the coming years.”
Reusable rockets are increasingly viewed as a method to enhance the sustainability and cost-efficiency of space launches. US company SpaceX continues to lead the industry with its reusable Falcon 9 rocket, while also developing a next-generation booster known as Starship, which is expected to be fully reusable.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
