Honda R&D, a research and development subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, conducted a launch and landing test of an experimental reusable rocket, which the company developed independently. It said the rocket landed successfully after reaching an altitude of nearly 300 meters (984 feet).
This test marked the first launch and landing test conducted by Honda with an aim to demonstrate key technologies essential for rocket reusability, such as flight stability during ascent and descent, as well as landing capability.
In 2021, Honda announced that it was pursuing research and development in the field of space technologies with the goal of allowing "people to transcend the constraints of time, place or ability and making people’s daily lives more enjoyable." The company's research has focused on a circulative renewable energy system, key robotic technologies for use in outer space and reusable rockets to support more satellite launches.
Honda said its rocket research is still in the fundamental research phase, and that no decisions have been made regarding commercialization. But it will continue its research with a goal of enabling a suborbital launch by 2029.
