China’s LandSpace Tests Reusable Zhuque-3 Rocket for Upcoming Flight

China has made a significant advancement in its space exploration efforts with the successful static-fire test of the Zhuque-3 rocket. Conducted by the Chinese aerospace company LandSpace on October 20, 2025, this test marks a crucial milestone as the company prepares for the rocket’s debut flight, anticipated before the year’s end.

The static-fire test, a standard procedure prior to launch, involved the rocket firing its engines while remaining secured to the launch pad. This test was part of a three-day initial phase of the Zhuque-3’s maiden flight campaign, which took place at the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Pilot Zone in northwestern China. As part of this phase, the rocket also underwent a fueling test.

Following this successful static-fire, LandSpace announced that the Zhuque-3 will proceed to a vertical integration rehearsal. Afterward, the rocket will return to the technical zone for necessary inspections and maintenance as it gears up for its upcoming orbital launch and first-stage recovery.

Design and Capabilities of Zhuque-3

The Zhuque-3 bears a striking resemblance to the SpaceX Falcon 9, featuring a reusable first stage and an expendable upper stage. Like the Falcon 9, the Zhuque-3’s booster is powered by nine engines, specifically the Tianque-12A engines, which have been developed in-house by LandSpace.

A significant distinction from the Falcon 9 is in the propellant used; the Tianque-12A employs liquid methane and liquid oxygen (LOX), while the Falcon 9’s Merlin engines utilize LOX and rocket-grade kerosene. Notably, SpaceX’s next-generation Raptor engine, which powers its Starship, also uses LOX and liquid methane.

Standing at a height of 217 feet (66 meters), the Zhuque-3 is capable of transporting approximately 40,350 pounds (18,300 kilograms) to low Earth orbit (LEO). This payload capacity is comparable to that of the Falcon 9, which can carry up to 50,265 pounds (22,800 kg) to LEO.

Future Prospects and Achievements

The static fire test is just the latest in a series of important developments for the Zhuque-3. LandSpace previously conducted successful low-altitude launch and landing tests with the vehicle last year, and a static fire was also performed in June 2025.

Founded in 2015, LandSpace has established itself as a notable player in the aerospace sector. The company has already achieved success with the expendable Zhuque-2 rocket, which in July 2023 became the first LOX-methane vehicle to reach Earth orbit. Following this accomplishment, the Zhuque-2 secured four consecutive successful launches, although it encountered a setback with its most recent launch attempt in August.

As LandSpace approaches the launch of the Zhuque-3, the global aerospace community will be watching closely, eager to see how this new entrant into the reusable rocket market performs. The successful deployment of the Zhuque-3 could mark a significant advancement in China’s space capabilities, further establishing the country as a key player in the international space industry.