JAXA Launches and Lands Reusable Rocket

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) conducted the first test flight of its experimental reusable rocket, Reusable Vehicle eXperiment (RV-X), on 11 July 2026 at the Noshiro Testing Center in Noshiro, Akita Prefecture, Japan. The rocket lifted off, hovered, moved horizontally, and landed safely during a flight of less than one minute.

Reusable Rocket Technology

Reusable rockets are launch vehicles designed to return to Earth and be used again after flight. The RV-X is 1.8 metres in diameter and 7.3 metres long, and it uses an engine built for enhanced durability. The vehicle also has four shock-absorption landing gear units for vertical landing tests.

RV-X Test Flight Profile

During the test, the RV-X reached an altitude of about 11 metres and moved horizontally for about 16 metres while remaining upright. The flight combined lift-off, hovering, lateral movement, and landing in a single test sequence. JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries co-developed the rocket for reusable launch demonstrations.

Development Timeline and Launch Vehicle Plans

RV-X development began in 2016, and its engine has undergone more than 160 combustion tests. JAXA plans to use lower-cost reusable rockets by the early 2030s. The agency intends such rockets to replace the H3 rocket as Japan’s main launch vehicle.

Important Facts for Exams

• JAXA stands for Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.
• Noshiro Testing Center is located in Akita Prefecture in northeastern Japan.
• SpaceX is a private aerospace company known for reusable rocket systems.
• The H3 rocket is Japan’s current main launch vehicle.