Archive · 20 Sep 2025
Europe, Japan, and China Aim to Develop Reusable Rockets
Several countries, like China, Japan, and those in Europe, are trying to build rockets that can land and be used again, just like SpaceX does.
China has several companies working on these rockets, with some successful tests already.
Japan's Honda company has also tested a small rocket that landed successfully.
Europe's ArianeGroup is testing a rocket called Themis.
These reusable rockets are designed to make space travel cheaper and easier by reusing parts instead of throwing them away.
This technology could lead to more launches and open up new possibilities for businesses and services in space.
China, Japan, and Europe are working to develop reusable vertical landing rockets.
China has multiple firms testing vertical landing rockets with promising results.
Japan's Honda successfully tested a reusable rocket in 2025.
Europe's ArianeGroup is testing the Themis reusable rocket demonstrator.
Reusable rockets aim to reduce costs, improve turnaround, and increase launch frequency.
- Who
- China, Japan, and Europe
- What
- Developing reusable vertical landing rockets
- When
- Ongoing, with specific tests in 2025 (Japan), and 2019 (Europe - ESA Program)
- Where
- China, Japan, and Europe
- Why
- To reduce launch costs, increase frequency, and save hardware
- Key Players
- China, Japan, Europe
- European Development
- ArianeGroup's Themis demonstrator
- Japanese Development
- Honda R&D tested an experimental reusable rocket
- Chinese Development
- Multiple firms developing reusable rockets
- Themis Height
- 30 meters
- Honda Rocket Height
- 6.3 meters