Chinese Firm Poised to Launch Nation’s First Reusable Rocket
A breakthrough in China’s space industry is on the horizon. The company LandSpace is set to launch the nation’s first reusable rocket, the Zhuque-3. This rocket aims to revolutionize satellite deployment with its impressive payload capacity and innovative design.
Key Features of the Zhuque-3 Rocket
The Zhuque-3 is engineered to carry payloads of up to 17,600 pounds (8 metric tons) into low-Earth orbit. Here are some pivotal specifications:
- Height: 216 feet (65.9 meters)
- Engines: Equipped with nine TQ-12A engines that utilize methane and liquid oxygen.
- Thrust: Generates over 1.6 million pounds of thrust at full throttle.
- Second Stage: Powered by a single TQ-15A engine producing approximately 200,000 pounds of thrust.
The Zhuque-3 shares design elements with SpaceX’s Falcon 9, featuring four deployable landing legs and grid fins. However, it also incorporates technological aspects inspired by the heavier Starship rocket, utilizing a stainless steel structure. Notably, it burns methane fuel, differing from Falcon 9’s kerosene fuel.
Prototype Testing and Validation
To prepare for its inaugural flight, LandSpace has constructed a prototype for testing. This testbed successfully demonstrated a flight reaching 10 kilometers (approximately 33,000 feet) in September 2024, achieving a vertical landing. This success confirmed the rocket’s guidance algorithms and engine restart capabilities.
Future Developments
LandSpace plans to enhance the Zhuque-3 with an upgraded version that will expand its propellant capacity and payload limit. The future model aims to carry over 40,000 pounds (18.3 metric tons) in reusable mode, or slightly more with an expendable booster.
Alongside LandSpace, another reusable rocket initiative is emerging. The Long March 12A, from one of China’s established government-owned firms, is undergoing final preparations for its flight, slated for potential launch before the year’s end. However, no specific timeline for this launch has been released.
As these advancements unfold, China is positioning itself to make significant strides in reusable rocketry, which promises cost-effective and efficient access to space.
