LandSpace, a prominent private rocket firm, aims to debut its reusable ZQ-3 rocket in 2025. "The ZQ-3 has already completed successful 100-meter and 10,000-meter vertical take-off and landing tests, signaling substantial progress in reusable rocket technology," stated Zhang Changwu, founder and CEO of LandSpace. The company anticipates delivering six ZQ-2 rockets and conducting three ZQ-3 launches by 2025, projecting an annual launch capacity of 244 tonnes by 2026, crucial for supporting China's satellite internet initiatives.
China recorded 67 rocket launches in 2023, with 13 carried out by private enterprises, 12 of which were successful. The increasing need for satellite constellations is driving high-frequency launches, spurring commercial rocket companies to focus on reusable rocket technologies.
A commercial entity under the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) introduced plans for a reusable two-stage, four-diameter rocket using liquid oxygen kerosene engines. General Manager Wang Wenjie emphasized, "This rocket aims for leading international standards in efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness." CASC has conducted nearly 550 launches, including 109 commercial ones, and will continue to prioritize reusable rocket technologies.
GalaxySpace, a private satellite manufacturer, announced advancements in its next-generation communication satellites featuring large-aperture umbrella antennas, which can fold to enhance launch adaptability. "The prototype is complete and will drive technological advancements in low-orbit broadband communication," noted Xu Ming, CEO of GalaxySpace.
Changguang Satellite Technology Co Ltd revealed plans for a new constellation comprising 200 satellites with high temporal and spatial resolution, supplementing its existing Jilin-1 constellation. This upcoming constellation aims to achieve 20-centimeter spatial resolution and global coverage within a day, allowing for revisits of any location every three minutes. "Mass production requires redesigning our system beyond our early workshop-scale production model," said Xuan Ming, chairman and general manager.
China's commercial space industry growth is supported by 546 registered enterprises as of mid-2024. The government's supportive policies include a 2015-2025 development plan for civil space infrastructure and an upcoming plan for 2026-2035. Li Guoping, chief engineer at the China National Space Administration, highlighted the industry's integration into China's overall space strategy, stressing balanced development and security. He called for enhanced regulatory support for rocket and satellite development, commercial licensing processes, and international cooperation.
Li underscored the importance of safety oversight throughout the lifecycle of space projects, from research and production to launch and re-entry. The forum also saw 20 companies launching an initiative to promote safe and structured industry development.
