Overview

• On June 17, Honda R&D launched its 6.3-metre prototype from its Taiki, Hokkaido, facility and landed it within 37 centimeters of the planned touchdown after it reached 271 metres.
• The demonstration is Honda’s first public test of reusable launch technology since the company began studying space systems in 2021.
• Company officials say they have not decided on commercialization but highlight the design’s potential for satellite deployment and integration with existing Honda services.
• The trial underscores a broader industry shift toward reusability led by SpaceX’s Falcon 9 and pursued by competitors including Blue Origin and Innovative Space Carrier.
• Backed by Tokyo’s multibillion-dollar venture fund, Japan’s automotive giants are ramping up space investments, with Toyota funding Interstellar Technologies for mass production.