LandSpace prepares reusable ZQ 3 rocket for first launch after major tests in China

LandSpace prepares reusable ZQ 3 rocket for first launch after major tests in China

LandSpace, a private Beijing-based rocket manufacturer, is moving toward the debut flight of its ZQ 3, also known as Rosefinch 3, at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China's Gobi Desert. The company is aiming to recover the rocket's first-stage booster after launch.

The ZQ 3 is a substantial reusable rocket, measuring 66.1 meters in height and 4.5 meters in diameter, with a fully fueled mass of nearly 570 metric tons. Its liftoff thrust exceeds 750 metric tons, allowing it to deliver heavy satellites to low Earth and sun-synchronous orbits.

The vehicle uses nine TQ-12A methane engines on its first stage and a single TQ-15B engine for the second stage. LandSpace's methane engines enhanc