China Achieves First Reusable Rocket Recovery During Orbital Launch, Closing Gap with US

China has successfully recovered the first stage of the Long March 10B carrier rocket during an orbital launch test, state media reported Friday, marking a landmark first for the country as it intensifies efforts to compete with American reusable rocket technology. The rocket lifted off from Hainan at 12:15 local time and landed approximately six minutes after separation, according to the BBC. The achievement was hailed as a significant milestone by multiple outlets, with BBC calling it "a major breakthrough for its space program."

SpaceMaking history! China lands rocket during an orbital launch for 1st time ever

"Making history! China lands rocket during an orbital launch for 1st time ever"

The successful launch and landing represent a major step forward for China's satellite industry, according to reports from afsdp.org.pe and NatSecPulse. The Long March 10B, developed by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, is designed to be reusable, similar to rockets built by SpaceX and Blue Origin. CNN, via KESQ and other affiliates, noted that the feat is a "landmark first" as China vies to catch up with American rivals in reusable rocket technology.

3 sources

KESQChina reports reusable rockets breakthrough as it vies to catch up with the USafsdp.org.peChina Launches Reusable Rocket, Clearing a Key Hurdle in Race With SpaceXNatSecPulseChina Launches Reusable Rocket

"This achievement follows similar reusable rocket landings by US companies SpaceX and Blue Origin."

NatSecPulse emphasized the strategic significance of the development, stating it "poses a challenge to SpaceX's dominance in the field." The reusable rocket technology could reduce launch costs and increase launch frequency, potentially reshaping the global space industry. Chinese satellite companies, in particular, stand to benefit from the breakthrough, which could enhance their competitiveness in the commercial space market.

The recovery of the first stage during an orbital mission distinguishes this test from previous suborbital attempts by Chinese firms. While SpaceX has been recovering rockets since 2015, China's success signals a narrowing technological gap between the two nations. The achievement also underscores the rapid pace of China's space ambitions, which include plans for a permanent space station and lunar missions.