China Nears Reusable Rockets with Dazzling Explosion
China is advancing its space technology with the development of reusable rockets. The Long March 12A, designed by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST), aims to make significant strides in this field.
Long March 12A Overview
The Long March 12A boasts performance similar to LandSpace’s Zhuque-3 rocket. Both rockets target booster stage landings downrange during their inaugural flights. Several other companies are also preparing for their first launches of reusable boosters.
Other Competitors in Reusable Rockets
- Space Pioneer: This company intended to lead the market with its Tianlong-3 rocket.
- Accidental Launch: Space Pioneer encountered a setback due to an unplanned launch last year during a test-firing.
- Successful Testing: In September 2023, Space Pioneer completed a static fire test, showcasing progress.
Specifications of Zhuque-3
The Zhuque-3 rocket can lift over 17,600 pounds (8 metric tons) into low-Earth orbit. This capacity makes it the largest and most powerful commercial rocket launched from China to date.
Future Developments
- Upgraded Capacity: LandSpace plans to enhance Zhuque-3’s capabilities, lifting over 40,000 pounds (18.3 metric tons) with reusable configurations.
- Expendable Options: The rocket may carry even higher payloads with an expendable booster.
Investment and Innovations
Since its inception in 2015, LandSpace has secured over $400 million in funding from venture capital and government investments. The company had previously developed the Zhuque-2 rocket, the first methane-burning launch vehicle to reach orbit in 2023.
Zhuque-2 Achievements
- Mission Success: The Zhuque-2 has successfully completed four missions out of six attempts.
LandSpace’s Vision for Reusable Rockets
Described as a “new-generation, low-cost, high-capacity, high-frequency, reusable LOX/methane launch vehicle,” LandSpace aims for its Zhuque-3 boosters to be reused at least 20 times. This capability will facilitate efficient multi-satellite deployment and contribute to China’s future space endeavors.
