HELSINKI — Chinese launch startup Landspace successfully placed two satellites into orbit late Tuesday with the inaugural flight of the enhanced Zhuque-2 rocket.
Launch Details
The Zhuque-2 enhanced version (ZQ-2E) lifted off at 9:00 p.m. EST on November 26 (0200 UTC, November 27) from the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Test Area at Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. As the rocket ascended into an overcast sky, insulation tiles detached from the structure.
Landspace announced the success of the launch, identifying the payloads as the Guangchuan 01 and 02 satellites. Unfortunately, specific details regarding these satellites were scarce.
Historical Context
This marks the fourth flight of the Zhuque-2 series. The first flight, conducted in December 2022, ended in failure and was followed by two successful launches in 2023.
The enhanced Zhuque-2E measures 47.3 meters in length and has a diameter of 3.35 meters, enabling it to carry up to 4,000 kg to a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 500 kilometers.
Engine and Design Improvements
The first stage employs four Tianque-12 (TQ-12) engines, which utilize liquid oxygen and methane for propulsion, while the second stage is powered by a singular Tianque-15A (TQ-15A) engine. This engine features upgrades including a vector control system that enhances performance while reducing mass by 400 kg.
| Rocket Configuration | Height | Payload Capacity | Engine Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zhuque-2E | 47.3 m | 4,000 kg | Liquid Oxygen / Methane |
Additionally, Landspace is working on a throttleable and restartable Tianque-12A engine for the first stage, which is yet to be tested in flight.
Innovative Features
The Zhuque-2E rocket is touted as China's first launch vehicle utilizing fully supercooled propellant loading, combined with a common bulkhead tank structure. Furthermore, the TQ-15A engine integrates a large niobium alloy nozzle extension, minimizing structural weight. The second Zhuque-2E launch is anticipated to occur by December.
Future Developments
Beyond the Zhuque-2E, Landspace is advancing the larger Zhuque-3 rocket, constructed from stainless steel and designed for reusability. A test flight for the Zhuque-3 is scheduled for 2025, following a recent successful 10-kilometer launch and landing test in September.
On November 27, China achieved its 58th orbital launch attempt of the year, following the recent launch of two SuperView Neo-2 radar satellites on November 25. Initially, it was reported in early 2024 that China planned for approximately 100 launches between the Long March series and commercial rockets.
The upcoming launch of the first Long March 12 rocket is set to take place soon, following its delivery to the launch pad at Wenchang on November 26. Relevant flight restrictions have been put in place for the period of November 28-30.
For more information on the launch, visit the full article on SpaceNews.
More Details:
The launch signifies a notable advancement for Landspace and its ongoing contributions to the dynamic field of space exploration.
Author: Andrew Jones