The Chinese commercial space firm, CAS Space, is making significant strides toward launching its first reusable rocket. This ambitious project, known as the Kinetica-2 or Lijian-2, is set to revolutionize space travel and satellite deployment.
Chinese commercial space (CAS)
CAS Space has been diligently testing various components of the Kinetica-2 rocket. These tests include vibration and hot-fire assessments of the rocket’s auxiliary engine system. The company aims to conduct the first launch of this reusable rocket next year.
The Kinetica-2 rocket is designed to be highly reliable and efficient. It stands 174 feet (53 meters) tall and has an 11-foot-wide (3.35 meters) core stage, supported by two side boosters. Kerosene and liquid oxygen are the rocket’s propellants.
It can carry a payload of up to 17,200 pounds (7,800 kilograms) into a sun-synchronous orbit or 26,450 pounds (12,000 kilograms) into low Earth orbit.
Beijing CAS Space vice president Shi Xiaoning provided information about the rocket’s capabilities. It has a payload capacity of around eight tonnes and was built quickly. It is also quite dependable.He told China Central Television (CCTV) that it’s mostly utilised to launch satellite groups for the development of low-orbit internet constellations and low-cost cargo ships.
The Kinetica-2 rocket is part of China’s broader strategy to enhance its space capabilities. CAS Space plans to recover and reuse the rocket’s first stage and boosters by 2028. This move aligns with global trends in space exploration, where reusability is becoming a key factor in reducing costs and increasing efficiency.
Some may have seen the news on our WeChat channel already🤔. Recently our space pros have conducted hot firing and thermal protection test for the auxiliary engine system on Kinetica-2. You can find more details and complete recordings on our YouTube channel. pic.twitter.com/shdjNafkwS
— CAS Space (@cas_space) July 26, 2024CAS Space’s progress in July and August has been noteworthy. The company has successfully conducted vibration and hot-fire tests of the rocket’s auxiliary engine system. These tests are crucial for ensuring the rocket’s reliability and performance during its maiden flight.
The Kinetica-2 rocket will play a vital role in launching satellites for China’s planned mega constellations. These satellite groups will provide global internet coverage and support various communication needs. Additionally, the rocket will be used to transport cargo to China’s Tiangong space station.
China’s space ambitions are not limited to the Kinetica-2 rocket. The country is also developing other reusable rockets to enhance its space capabilities. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) plans to launch four-meter and five-meter-diameter reusable rockets in 2025 and 2026, respectively.
These developments are part of China’s national strategy to support commercial space activities. CASC is leveraging its industrial chain and technological advantages to promote the growth of the commercial space industry.
The organization is also increasing the openness and sharing of large-scale test facilities, such as rocket engine test benches.
The Kinetica-2 rocket’s design and capabilities make it a significant addition to China’s space arsenal. Its ability to carry heavy payloads and its reusability features are expected to reduce launch costs and increase the frequency of space missions. This will enable China to achieve its ambitious space goals more efficiently.
CAS Space’s efforts to develop the Kinetica-2 rocket are a testament to China’s growing prowess in space technology. The company’s focus on reusability aligns with global trends and demonstrates its commitment to innovation and sustainability in space exploration.
As CAS Space prepares for the first launch of the Kinetica-2 rocket, the world watches with anticipation. This milestone will mark a significant achievement in China’s space journey and pave the way for more advanced and cost-effective space missions in the future.
Editor’s Recommendations
- Speeding Asteroid 2024 ON2 the Size of an Airplane to Pass Earth Today, NASA Reports!
- Nanoparticles to Warm the Red Planet and Make Mars Habitable for Future Colonization
- Webb Telescope Captures Stunning ‘Gassy Baby Stars’ in Cosmic Nursery!
- Astronomers’ Alarming Find, Earth-Sized Planet TOI-6255 b on the Verge of Destruction
