Japan’s Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) is following compatriot Mitsui OSK Lines in targeting space exploration as a new source of revenues.
NYK has obtained an approval in principle from ClassNK for the conceptual design of an offshore recovery system for reusable rockets, an initiative developed through the Space Strategy Fund at the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
NYK now aims to carry out a demonstration test of this new vessel type in 2028 working with multiple partners including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
Rockets are launched by generating thrust through the combustion of fuel and oxidiser. Following launch, the lower or first stage of the rocket separates from the upper stage and falls back to Earth. NYK’s offshore recovery system comprises two vessels: a recovery vessel (pictured), where the first stage of the rocket lands, and a command vessel that supports the recovery operation. The recovery vessel remains stationed at the landing site, serving as the landing location for the falling first stage of the rocket. The recovery vessel is equipped with a dynamic positioning system (DPS), enabling it to maintain its position accurately while accounting for factors such as tidal currents. Notably, the recovery vessel will operate entirely unmanned during rocket recovery. Once the rocket has landed, the command vessel will coordinate with the recovery vessel to safely transport the rocket back to port.
MOL has also recently announced plans to commercialise an offshore rocket launch and recovery vessel.
The initiative, slated for commercialisation around 2030, is being developed in partnership with Innovative Space Carrier (ISC) and Tsuneishi Solutions Tokyobay, a company formerly known as Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding.
The development roadmap includes a recovery vessel as the first phase, followed by feasibility studies for an offshore launch platform capable of supporting a new generation of rockets.
MOL and NYK are by no means the only shipping companies assisting in the field of space exploration.
Chinese state-run COSCO, the world’s largest shipowner, has provided logistics support for China’s Long March rocket program, including sea transport of rocket parts and launch equipment, while Russia’s space launches from Baikonur and Vostochny are occasionally supported by Russian rail–sea logistics chains, involving state-linked shipping companies.
France’s CMA CGM has transported components for the Ariane rocket family, particularly when moving oversized modules between Europe and South America.
Foss Maritime, a major US towing and marine transportation firm, has been contracted to tow rocket stages and heavy components for the United Launch Alliance in the US.
While not a shipping company itself, Elon Musk’s SpaceX has used the services and conversions of maritime operators. Of Course I Still Love You and Just Read the Instructions are drone ships used for Falcon 9 booster landings, operated by converted offshore support vessels. SpaceX has partnered with marine logistics companies for booster recovery and cargo transport.
Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin, meanwhile, has constructed a bespoke barge-based landing platform while the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) operates a custom cargo transportation barge.
