China's Zhuque-3 Reusable Rocket Passes Key Milestone

China's private space firm LandSpace successfully conducted a critical static fire test of its Zhuque-3 rocket. This reusable rocket, named after a mythical bird, is constructed from stainless steel and utilizes methane fuel. The test, performed on October 22nd, involved fully fueling the rocket and firing its engines while it remained on the launch pad. This milestone is a significant step toward the Zhuque-3's first flight, anticipated by the end of 2025. The Zhuque-3 is powered by nine Tianque-12A engines and is designed to be similar in concept to SpaceX's Starship. It will stand 65.9 meters tall and weigh 550,000 kg. Its payload capacity is 11,800 kg in expendable mode and 8,000 kg when recoverable. This payload capability is comparable to that of the Falcon 9 rocket. LandSpace also plans a larger Zhuque-3E variant with increased height and payload capacity. The company's ultimate aim is to develop a reusable launch system to compete with SpaceX's Falcon rockets. This initiative aligns with China's broader ambition to achieve parity with NASA in space exploration.