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China recovers reusable rocket used in the maiden launch of Long March 10B
South China Morning Post • • world
Key Points:
- China successfully recovered part of its Long March 10B reusable rocket during its maiden launch, becoming the second country to achieve controlled orbital-class booster recovery.
- The 70-meter tall, 5-meter wide rocket lifted off from Wenchang space launch site, with the first stage returning vertically and landing on a sea platform about six minutes after stage separation.
- This first flight validated the rocket’s reusable first-stage design, which is expected to reduce launch costs according to state broadcaster CCTV.
- The two-stage Long March 10B is powered by seven YF-100K engines using kerosene and liquid oxygen, capable of delivering up to 16 tonnes to low Earth orbit and primarily intended for cargo missions.
