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China’s Reusable Rockets for Lunar Missions
China is gearing up to launch two reusable rockets in 2025 and 2026 as part of a new lunar program aimed at preparing for future crewed missions to the moon. The state-owned China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp. (CASC), the main contractor for the Chinese space program, introduced this initiative, which is considered crucial for China’s goal of sending astronauts to the moon by 2030.
Unlike previous rockets used by China, these upcoming rockets will be entirely reusable. This not only enhances sustainability but also proves to be more cost-effective as there is no need to build new rockets for each mission.
Details of the Rockets
The rockets, not yet named by CASC, consist of a 13-foot (4-meter) and a 16-foot (5-meter) diameter design. There is speculation that the larger rocket could be a variation of the planned Long March 10, a massive launch vehicle with the capacity to transport 27 tons into translunar orbit. The Long March 10 will also play a significant role in ferrying the crew of the recently unveiled Mengzhou spacecraft to the moon in 2030.
A test launch of the Long March 10 might include sending a next-generation crew capsule into Earth orbit by 2025, aligning with the schedule for the reusable rockets. Details regarding the second reusable spacecraft and the 2026 launch are yet to be disclosed.
Advancements and Progress
In the lead up to the potential launch in 2025, CASC has achieved significant milestones, including a vertical take-off and landing hover test and a key technological breakthrough in reusable rockets in 2023. Representatives from CASC have expressed confidence in the project’s overall progress, citing a smooth trajectory towards the development of these innovative rockets.
While various Chinese companies are currently working on reusable rocket technology, the introduction of these new launch vehicles by state-owned CASC is expected to enhance China’s launch capabilities and access to space. Competition among different commercial rocket companies within China is anticipated to increase with the introduction of these reusable rockets.
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