China’s LandSpace Achieves Orbit with Enhanced Methane-Powered Rocket: A Leap for Commercial Spaceflight
In a landmark achievement for China's burgeoning commercial space sector, LandSpace Technology successfully launched its enhanced Zhuque-2E methane-powered rocket on Saturday, May 17, 2025. This significant milestone marks a crucial step towards developing reusable and cost-effective launch solutions, positioning LandSpace as a key player in the global space race.
The Zhuque-2E Y2 carrier rocket blasted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, carrying six Tianyi satellites into orbit. This mission underscores the increasing demand within China for satellite constellations, driven by the quest to offer alternatives to established networks like SpaceX's Starlink.
The methane-liquid oxygen (methalox) propulsion system is central to LandSpace's strategy. This technology is considered cleaner, safer, and potentially cheaper than traditional hydrocarbon fuels, making it an attractive option for reusable rocket development. The Zhuque-2E's success places LandSpace ahead of US competitors in the methane-powered rocket arena, including SpaceX and Blue Origin, after becoming the world's first company to achieve a successful methane-fueled launch in July 2023.
The payload of six satellites included two optical remote sensing satellites (Tianyi 29 and 35), three space science experiment satellites (Tianyi 34, 45 and 46), and one remote-sensing synthetic aperture radar satellite (Tianyi 42). Notably, the satellites will contribute to Earth observation and scientific research, showcasing the diverse applications of China's growing space capabilities.
According to Landspace’s post-launch statement, this second Zhuque-2E featured upgraded Tianque-12A engines, while the second stage Tianque-15A engine used a niobium-tungsten alloy extended nozzle. The successfull launch marks the first use of quasi-real-time wind correction trajectory design technology.
While this launch signifies progress, it's worth noting that one of the involved companies, Spacety, faced previous sanctions by the U.S. Treasury Department. The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Spacety in January 2023 for allegedly supplying a Russian company with radar satellite imagery over Ukraine. However, Spacety has denied these claims.
Looking ahead, LandSpace is actively developing the Zhuque-3, a larger, reusable methalox launch vehicle, with a test launch anticipated in the second half of 2025. The enhanced capabilities of the Zhuque-2E, including improvements in engine technology and innovative trajectory design, directly contribute to this ambitious endeavor.
This launch contributes to a busy period for Chinese space activity, marking the 27th orbital launch this year. With numerous launches planned in the near future, China is solidifying its position as a major force in space exploration and commercialization.
What are your thoughts on the rapid advancements in China's commercial space sector? Do you believe methane-powered rockets will become the industry standard? Share your opinions and predictions in the comments below!
