China’s first reusable rocket is being addressed for action by a trio of companies.
The flights will occur from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center and will include eventual lift-offs by the Long March 12A manufactured by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, the Zhugue-e from LandSpace and Tianlong-3 from Space Pioneer.
Of the three first stages, the latter rocket’s first stage is not expected to attempt a landing, while the other two will attempt the first stage re-landing feat downrange from Jiuquan. The Long March 12A has been rolled out and is standing tall on the launch pad, and the Zhuguq-3 had successfully completed launch rehearsals.
These rockets are all expected to participate in the build of China’s enormous satellite constellation that will be dedicated to international internet communications… and perhaps more…