NYK and Osaka University Develop Vessels for Reusable Rocket Recovery

NYK and Osaka University have initiated a collaboration to advance an offshore recovery system for reusable rockets, which NYK developed as part of a project under the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Space Strategy Fund.

Through this alliance, NYK and Osaka University will jointly promote the research and development of offshore recovery vessels for reusable rockets and related systems.

Moving forward, both organizations will leverage Osaka University's expertise in shipbuilding and marine engineering and deepen industry-academia collaboration to advance theoretical studies on vessel movement, design, and system engineering, thereby enhancing the project's technological foundation.

Key areas of focus include analyzing the motion characteristics of offshore recovery vessels (including movements in waves); studies on the optimal design of the recovery vessel system; and analytical and fundamental studies in preparation for demonstration tests.

Reusable rockets are being developed worldwide as a key technology to reduce space transportation costs and increase launch frequency. To achieve this, technologies that allow for the safe and reliable recovery of rocket vehicles are required. For Japan, a maritime nation, offshore recovery is considered a promising option.

Through this project, NYK and Osaka University aim to pioneer a new area of value at the intersection of ocean and space, contributing to the improvement of Japan's space transportation capabilities and the strengthening of its industrial competitiveness.