Japan Successfully Tests Reusable Space Rocket

Tokyo (AFP) – The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) announced its first successful launch and safe landing of a reusable rocket, marking a significant step forward in developing technology that notably helps reduce the costs of space missions.

The prototype, launched from JAXA’s test site in Noshiro in northern Japan, rose to an altitude of about 10 meters during a test that lasted approximately 40 seconds.

Takashi Ito, the official in charge of the test, told reporters: “We have devoted a great deal of time and effort to this endeavor. Now that the prototype has taken off and landed without any issues, I must say I feel a great sense of relief.”

He added that JAXA still needs to analyze the data to assess the extent of the success, expressing confidence in obtaining “highly useful data.”

Most launch vehicles are designed for single use; their components typically fall into the sea, burn up in the atmosphere, or remain as debris in orbit.