Beijing-based LandSpace launched China's first reusable rocket, Zhuque-3, from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre on Wednesday, reaching low-Earth orbit but failing in the first-stage recovery attempt. The company is investigating the anomaly.
On Wednesday at noon, Beijing-based commercial space company LandSpace launched the Zhuque-3 rocket from China's Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in the northwest. This marked the maiden voyage of China's first reusable rocket, which successfully reached low-Earth orbit, but the first stage encountered an anomaly during landing and failed to achieve a soft landing.
LandSpace stated on social media: “The first stage experienced an anomaly during the landing phase and failed to achieve a soft landing on the recovery pad.” The company added: “The debris landed on the edge of the recovery pad, resulting in a failed recovery test. The specific cause is under further investigation.” Reports indicate the lower stage appeared to catch fire in the air before crashing near the target recovery site.
The United States remains the only country to have successfully returned an orbital-class booster, though China is competing for the second spot with upcoming launches. Powered by Tianque-12A engines, Zhuque-3 aims to rival SpaceX's Falcon 9 and Blue Origin's New Glenn. As a key player in China's commercial space sector, LandSpace's effort highlights progress in reusable technology, despite the setback.