China’s LandSpace Pursues Reusable Rocket Milestone with Zhuque-3
TOKYO – China is increasingly relying on private-sector companies to advance its space capabilities, particularly in the development of rockets and satellites. Among these companies, LandSpace Technology Corporation is at the forefront, striving to achieve full reusability with its Zhuque-3 launch vehicle.
Zhuque-3: A New Generation of Chinese Rockets
The Zhuque-3 (ZQ-3) is a two-stage, medium-to-heavy lift launch vehicle designed for partial reusability. Powered by liquid methane and oxygen, it represents a significant step forward in Chinese commercial spaceflight. The rocket is constructed from stainless steel and is capable of delivering payloads to low Earth orbit (LEO). Zhuque-3 – Wikipedia
Two variants of the Zhuque-3 are in development: the Zhuque-3 and the Zhuque-3E. The Zhuque-3 can deliver up to 11,800 kg to LEO in its expended configuration, or 8,000 kg with first-stage recovery. The Zhuque-3E boasts a higher capacity, with 21,300 kg expendable and 18,300 kg with recovery, and can even achieve 12,500 kg recovery back to the launch point. Zhuque-3 – Wikipedia
First Launch and Recovery Attempts
LandSpace conducted the maiden flight of the Zhuque-3 on December 3, 2025, launching from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. While the second stage successfully reached its designated orbit, the attempt to recover the first stage was unsuccessful. Zhuque-3 reaches orbit on test flight, first stage lost – SpaceNews
Despite the setback, LandSpace is actively working to improve its recovery process. The company is planning another recovery test in the second quarter of 2026, aiming for a recovery and reuse flight in the fourth quarter, contingent on the results of the second-quarter test. China’s LandSpace plans more recovery test launches of its Zhuque-3 reusable rocket in Q2 of 2026: company – Global Times
The Zhuque-3 is powered by nine TQ-12A engines in its initial configuration, providing a maximum thrust of 7,200 kN at sea level. The Zhuque-3E will utilize nine TQ-12B engines, increasing the maximum thrust to 9,000 kN. The second stage is powered by a single TQ-15A (ZQ-3) or TQ-15B (ZQ-3E) vacuum engine. Zhuque-3 – Wikipedia
Significance for China’s Space Program
The Zhuque-3 program represents a crucial step in China’s ambition to develop a fully reusable launch system. Successful recovery and reuse of the first stage would significantly reduce launch costs and increase the frequency of space launches. Zhuque-3 reaches orbit on test flight, first stage lost – SpaceNews
LandSpace’s efforts align with China’s broader strategy of fostering innovation within its private space sector, aiming to compete with established players like SpaceX in the global launch market.
Future Outlook
LandSpace remains committed to achieving full reusability with the Zhuque-3. The upcoming recovery tests in 2026 are critical milestones in this endeavor. If successful, the company plans to utilize the recovered first stage for a reuse flight later in the year, marking a significant achievement for China’s commercial space industry. China’s LandSpace plans more recovery test launches of its Zhuque-3 reusable rocket in Q2 of 2026: company – Global Times