China’s reusable rocket Zhuque-3 is preparing for its maiden flight this year, according to developer LandSpace. The launch is set to mark the first operational flight of a reusable rocket in China, signaling a major milestone for the country’s commercial space industry.
In October, LandSpace completed fueling rehearsals and static ignition tests, crucial steps in preparing for the launch. These tests confirmed that the reusable rocket is ready for full-scale orbital missions.
The Zhuque-3 mission will follow a two-phase plan. First, engineers will conduct fueling and ignition tests before returning the vehicle to the technical area for inspection and maintenance. Next, the rocket will attempt orbital launch while simultaneously testing first-stage recovery capabilities.
LandSpace designed Zhuque-3 as a large-capacity, low-cost reusable liquid launch vehicle. Its primary purpose is to support large-scale constellation deployments. The rocket features stainless steel construction, a 4.5-meter diameter for both stages, and a 5.2-meter payload fairing. Its total length reaches 66.1 meters, with a takeoff mass of roughly 570 tons and thrust exceeding 750 tons.
After completing orbital missions, Zhuque-3 can autonomously return to the recovery site. Engineers aim for high-precision soft landings that allow for reuse, dramatically reducing launch costs.
“If China achieves breakthroughs in rocket recovery, the reusable rocket will deliver immense strategic value and enhance global competitiveness,” a LandSpace spokesperson said. The company emphasized that the development could increase launch frequency, accelerate low-orbit constellation deployment, and strengthen China’s space industry.
Experts note that the successful launch of the reusable rocket could also signal China’s entry into an era of large-scale space transportation. The technology would allow for higher launch efficiency and more cost-effective satellite deployment.
LandSpace has highlighted the combination of orbital launch capability and first-stage recovery as the core innovation. If successful, the reusable rocket could make China a key player in commercial space and advance global competition in reusable launch technologies.
