Landspaces Zhuque-3 Reusable Rocket Completes Key Test
Summary: On July 26, 2026, Landspaces Zhuque-3 reusable rocket completed a vertical takeoff and landing test, laying the foundation for subsequent orbital launches.
On July 26, 2026, LandSpace successfully completed a vertical takeoff and landing (VTVL) test of its Zhuque-3 reusable launch vehicle. The test marks a critical milestone in the development of the Zhuque-3, laying a solid technical foundation for upcoming orbital launch missions.
The Zhuque-3 is a large reusable liquid-propellant launch vehicle independently developed by LandSpace. It is powered by liquid oxygen and methane engines and is designed to enable vertical recovery and reuse of its first stage. The vehicle aims to significantly reduce launch costs and increase launch cadence to meet the growing demand for large-scale satellite constellation deployment and space infrastructure construction.
The vertical takeoff and landing test is a core step in validating reusable rocket recovery technologies. Through this test, LandSpace conducted integrated verification of key technologies including landing guidance algorithms, landing leg deployment, and engine restart and deep throttling capabilities. According to reports, all test parameters met expected targets, though detailed technical specifications are yet to be officially disclosed by the company.
As of now, multiple commercial space companies in China are actively advancing the development of reusable rockets. LandSpace's progress with the Zhuque-3 further accelerates China's technical accumulation and engineering practice in this competitive field.