Commercial Space
LandSpace’s Zhuque-3 Test Advances China’s Reusable Rocket Goals
LandSpace’s Zhuque-3 reusable rocket completes a successful static fire test, validating propulsion systems for its Q4 2025 maiden flight, advancing China’s commercial space ambitions.
On June 20, 2025, LandSpace, a leading Chinese private aerospace company, successfully conducted a static fire test of the first-stage propulsion system for its Zhuque-3 (ZQ-3) reusable rocket. This milestone marks a critical step in China’s efforts to develop cost-effective, reusable launch vehicles, aligning with global trends led by companies like SpaceX.
The test, executed at the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Test Zone near Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, involved nine Tianque-12A methane-liquid oxygen engines firing for 45 seconds. It simulated flight conditions, validating technologies like multi-engine synchronization and subsystem integration. As China advances its commercial space capabilities, this test underscores LandSpace’s role in the global space race.
The test used a flight-configured first stage of Zhuque-3, powered by nine Tianque-12A methalox engines. These engines, designed for deep throttling and multiple ignitions, support controlled descent and reusability. The test sequence included propellant loading, tank pressurization, staggered ignition, stable burn, attitude control, and programmed shutdown, with all systems performing as expected.
The test validated compatibility between subsystems, including avionics, structures, and ground support systems. A specialized test bench ensured safety and precision, while rigorous pre-test reviews and emergency protocols reflected LandSpace’s commitment to quality. The 45-second burn demonstrated engine reliability and synchronization, critical for the rocket’s upcoming maiden flight.
“The test was carried out under conditions highly consistent with the actual flight state, achieving the expected results,” said Dai Zheng, Chief Commander of Zhuque-3. This test represents China’s most advanced liquid methalox engine cluster test, overcoming challenges like combustion stability in dense engine configurations. The Tianque-12A engine, an evolution of the TQ-12 used in Zhuque-2, offers improved thrust and efficiency, enhancing fuel economy and launch affordability.
Zhuque-3’s stainless-steel construction, similar to SpaceX’s Starship, ensures thermal resilience during re-entry and simplifies maintenance. Combined with modular engine design, this enables rapid turnaround between flights, a key factor for high-frequency launches and cost reduction.
The Zhuque-3 test aligns with China’s strategy to build a competitive commercial space sector. Since 2014 policy reforms, private companies like LandSpace, founded in 2015, have driven innovation in methane propulsion, which offers cleaner combustion and better performance than RP-1 kerosene. Zhuque-2, the first methalox rocket to reach orbit, set the stage for Zhuque-3’s ambitions.
Zhuque-3, designed for at least 20 reuses, aims to significantly reduce launch costs compared to Zhuque-2. It supports recovery via drone-ship landings or return-to-launch-site operations, enhancing mission flexibility. Significant investments in manufacturing facilities in Jiaxing and Huzhou bolster LandSpace’s production capacity, supported by national infrastructure. LandSpace competes in a dynamic global launch market. While geopolitical factors limit access to Western clients, it targets global markets through partnerships. Zhuque-3’s competitive pricing positions it as an option for emerging space nations in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Technologically, LandSpace trails SpaceX by several years in reusable launch experience but surpasses many European and Japanese programs due to its methane expertise and rapid development. Zhuque-3’s 2025–2026 manifest includes domestic satellite launches, supporting China’s Guowang constellation and competing with global mega-constellations like Starlink.
The successful Zhuque-3 propulsion test is a pivotal milestone for China’s commercial space sector. It validates reusable rocket technologies and positions LandSpace for its maiden flight in Q4 2025, with recovery attempts planned for 2026. The test highlights the synergy of private innovation and state support driving China’s space ambitions.
As global demand for affordable, high-frequency launches grows, LandSpace’s progress in reusability could reshape the launch market. Zhuque-3’s success signals a future of cost-efficient space access, with LandSpace poised to play a key role in the next era of space exploration.
What is the Zhuque-3 rocket? What engines power Zhuque-3? When is Zhuque-3’s first flight? How does Zhuque-3 compare to SpaceX’s Falcon 9? Why use methane as a propellant?
Introduction
Engineering and Execution of the Zhuque-3 Propulsion Test
Technical Setup and Objectives
Breakthroughs in Propulsion Technology
Strategic Implications and Industry Context
China’s Push for Reusable Launch Capability
Global Competitive Landscape
Conclusion
FAQ
Zhuque-3 is a reusable launch vehicle developed by LandSpace, designed to lower launch costs using methane-fueled propulsion and reusable technology.
It uses nine Tianque-12A engines, burning liquid methane and liquid oxygen, optimized for throttling and multiple ignitions.
The maiden flight is planned for Q4 2025, with operational reusability targeted for 2026.
Zhuque-3 aims for similar reusability and cost efficiency but lags in flight experience, though it offers competitive pricing.
Methane provides cleaner combustion, higher efficiency, and better reusability compared to RP-1 kerosene.
Sources
Photo Credit: Landscape