China Unveils Reusable Long March 9 Rocket Model
||2024.11.29
Chen Ziyu, a representative from the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT) under the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), stated in an interview with local media that the Long March 9 rocket is capable of carrying up to 100 tons to low Earth orbit and up to 50 tons to lunar transfer orbit. He added that the rocket could be utilized for a variety of space missions, ranging from low Earth orbit operations to deep space exploration.
He explained that the development of the Long March 9 is divided into two phases. Initially, the rocket will be configured as a disposable launch vehicle to achieve its target payload capacity. Subsequently, it will transition to a fully reusable design.
In April 2023, the China National Space Administration (CNSA) introduced the Long March 9 as a three-stage rocket. It measures 114 meters in length, with a maximum thrust of 6,100 tons at liftoff. The first stage is equipped with multiple full-flow staged combustion methane engines, capable of delivering up to 150 tons of payload to low Earth orbit.
The development of the Long March 9 rocket began in 2016, initially designed as a disposable launch vehicle. After undergoing several design changes, the rocket's development pivoted in 2022 toward a fully reusable model, influenced by the debut of SpaceX's Starship.
The first launch of the Long March 9 rocket is scheduled for 2033.
