Japan successfully tests reusable rocket RV-X in vertical hop

JAXA successfully completed the first test flight of its reusable rocket prototype RV-X on July 11, 2026, marking a key step toward reducing space launch costs. The 40-second flight at the Noshiro Test Center in Akita prefecture saw the rocket ascend to 11 meters, translate 16 meters horizontally, and land vertically on its four shock-absorbing legs Source: Excelsior.

Test details

The RV-X, measuring 7.3 meters long and 1.8 meters in diameter, is designed for multiple cycles. Its engine has undergone 165 combustion tests, proving its durability Source: Infobae. Takashi Ito, JAXA's reusable rocket project director, expressed relief: “Siento que hemos dedicado una gran cantidad de tiempo y esfuerzo a esto, y ahora que el prototipo ha despegue y aterrizado sin problemas, debo decir que siento una gran sensación de alivio” Source: Excelsior.

International competition

JAXA's push for reusability aims to lower costs and compete with SpaceX's Falcon 9, which has dominated the reusable market for years Source: Infobae. Notably, China also achieved a successful reusable rocket landing on July 10, recovering the first stage of a Long March-10B on a sea platform Source: EFE. Japan's collaboration with France and Germany on the Callisto rocket will benefit from RV-X data Source: Infobae.