Japan’s JAXA Tests Reusable Rocket Prototype RV-X in Akita

According to Lianhe Zaobao citing Kyodo News, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on July 11 conducted a flight test of its reusable rocket small experimental vehicle, RV-X, at a facility in Noshiro, Akita Prefecture. The vehicle rose to about 11 meters, hovered and moved horizontally about 16 meters, then descended and landed successfully, with a flight time of about 40 seconds. JAXA said it hopes to apply the results to development of Japan’s next-generation main rocket, and will analyze flight data and inspection results before deciding whether to conduct a second test. JAXA last carried out a reusable rocket experimental vehicle flight test in 2003.