Japan set to join the re-usable rocket club after Honda sticks a landing
https://www.theregister.com/2025/06/18/honda_france_reusable_rockets/
Honda just launched a small test rocket and landed it safely, marking a big step in its low-key space program. The rocket only reached 271 metres and lasted under a minute, but it’s part of Honda’s long-term goal: a sub-orbital mission by 2029. For now, it’s R&D—not commercial—but the tech and ambition are real.
Meanwhile, France’s CNES has its eyes on the future too. Their new ASTRE project aims to build reusable rocket engines with high thrust and re-ignition capability, similar to SpaceX’s Raptor. With Franco-Spanish companies like Pangea and ArianeGroup on board, Europe is moving fast toward reusable, cost-effective space launches. The space race is evolving—and it’s not just the usual players anymore.