Honda is ready to test space-bound hydrogen fuel cell technology
In bold lunar mission push
In a bold stride towards advancing sustainable space exploration, Honda R&D will begin testing its cutting-edge high-differential pressure water electrolysis system aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The initiative, which brings together leading space innovators Sierra Space and Tec-Masters, is part of Honda’s broader ambition to develop regenerative fuel cell systems capable of powering human life on the Moon.
This innovative project is a key milestone in Honda’s vision for a circular renewable energy system that can sustainably support long-term lunar habitation by generating electricity, hydrogen and oxygen from water. The system could prove vital for future missions to the Moon, offering a renewable and closed-loop energy source.
Drawing on decades of experience in hydrogen fuel cell technology, Honda is pushing boundaries with a regenerative fuel cell system designed to operate in the extreme conditions of outer space.
The system will use solar energy during the Lunar Day to produce hydrogen and oxygen through Honda’s high-differential pressure water electrolysis process. This method not only separates water into its elemental components but also does so efficiently, without the need for mechanical compression, which reduces wear and maintenance.
When sunlight disappears during the Lunar Night, the stored hydrogen and oxygen will be used in Honda’s fuel cells to generate electricity. A portion of the oxygen will also support life support systems for astronauts, making the setup an essential element of potential lunar bases.
Closed-loop system
Perhaps most impressively, this closed-loop system mimics the function of home solar systems on Earth. Water created as a byproduct from fuel cell operation is recycled into the electrolysis system, ensuring a sustainable and continuous energy production cycle. It’s a clear example of how space innovation could directly influence renewable technologies here on Earth.
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To verify the system’s viability in microgravity, Honda will test the core element of its high-differential pressure water electrolysis technology on the ISS. Space-based trials are possible through collaboration with Sierra Space and Tec-Masters—two powerhouses in commercial space innovation and scientific research.
Sierra Space, known for its Dream Chaser spaceplane—the only commercial spaceplane in existence—will serve as the mission integrator. Working alongside Nasa, Sierra Space will transport Honda’s technology to the ISS. Tec-Masters, meanwhile, will serve as the ISS technology lead, applying its extensive expertise to ensure the system functions correctly in the unique space conditions.
This partnership accelerates Honda’s space ambitions and exemplifies the growing synergy between traditional automotive manufacturers and trailblazers in the space industry.
Recognising the need for a focused approach to advanced space technologies, Honda established a dedicated Space Development Division within American Honda in late 2024. The division serves as a key driver of innovation, strengthening collaboration with US space companies and expanding the reach of Honda’s core technologies beyond the Earth’s atmosphere.
Practical technologies
Honda’s US and Japanese teams are working together to transform these ideas into practical technologies, ultimately aimed at supporting human activity on the Moon and, in the future, on Mars. The company’s Space Development Division also highlights Honda’s commitment to leading in sustainability, both on Earth and in space.
While Honda’s latest venture takes the company beyond Earth, its commitment to the US market remains strong. Honda began its American journey in 1959 with the establishment of American Honda Motor and has since become a deeply embedded part of the manufacturing landscape. The company employs over 30,000 associates nationwide and operates 12 major manufacturing facilities.
More than 60% of the Honda and Acura vehicles sold in the US in 2024 were made in America, a testament to Honda’s pledge to build products close to the customer. Alongside manufacturing, Honda supports robust research and development programmes at 23 US facilities, where teams work on everything from next-gen vehicles to advanced aerospace solutions.
The leap from Earth to orbit may seem dramatic, but for Honda, it’s a natural extension of its mission to power mobility through clean and innovative technologies. As the company eyes the Moon and beyond, it remains grounded in its core values: efficiency, sustainability, and collaboration.
Honda’s ISS test is more than just a technical demonstration—it represents a new era of possibility. As humanity looks towards establishing a sustained presence on the Moon, systems like Honda’s regenerative fuel cell technology may become essential infrastructure. Capable of storing energy, producing breathable air and recycling water, this system lays the groundwork for truly autonomous living in space.
While the ultimate goal is to support human life off Earth, the benefits here on Earth are just as compelling. From home solar applications to zero-emission transport, the same technology could offer scalable clean energy solutions for communities around the globe.
Image: CGI of Honda’s high-differential pressure water electrolysis system on the lunar surface. Credit: Honda
