China unveils new two-stage reusable heavy rocket design

Written by Copernical Team Wednesday, 20 November 2024 07:07

font size decrease font size increase font size
Print
Email

Write a comment

Sydney, Australia (SPX) Nov 19, 2024

China has introduced an innovative two-stage, fully reusable heavy rocket design during the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, highlighting unique recovery techniques for each stage of the rocket. The China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT) stated that China's future heavy-lift rocket lineup would feature three main configurations: a three-stage model, a

China unveils new two-stage reusable heavy rocket design
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Nov 19, 2024

China has introduced an innovative two-stage, fully reusable heavy rocket design during the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, highlighting unique recovery techniques for each stage of the rocket.

The China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT) stated that China's future heavy-lift rocket lineup would feature three main configurations: a three-stage model, a two-stage model, and a fully reusable two-stage model, the latter being the focus of the airshow.

"We've developed a grid-based recovery system for the reusable model and made significant progress in the past two years by successfully completing a scaled-down sea recovery test," said Wang Yue, deputy director of CALT's aerospace department.

An animated demonstration by CALT illustrated the first stage of the reusable rocket using grid fins for stabilization during descent and being secured by movable rails on an offshore platform. The second stage was shown performing a controlled vertical landing.

Wang emphasized that this reusable design is key to advancing China's space initiatives and fostering broader global space industry growth.

CALT outlined a phased approach for the development of universally adaptable modules to support all three rocket configurations, enhancing both heavy-lift capacity and full reusability.

In the first phase, CALT will focus on creating a shared first stage, a non-reusable second stage, and a hydrogen-oxygen third stage. These components will build the standard 10-meter-diameter heavy-lift rocket, designed to carry at least 100 tonnes to low Earth orbit and 50 tonnes to lunar transfer orbit.

The second phase will introduce a multi-purpose, reusable second stage to form a two-stage fully reusable rocket. This model aims to lower space transport costs, boost operational efficiency, and scale up transportation capacity, primarily for near-Earth missions, such as satellite network development and infrastructure projects.

For deep-space missions, including Mars and asteroid explorations, the three-stage configuration is tailored to achieve higher speeds and reach farther orbits.

CALT highlighted that modular development allows the different rocket components to be independently engineered, produced, and tested, providing flexibility for diverse mission needs. The use of common modules across rocket models will cut down on production costs and simplify maintenance.

The academy further noted that upcoming heavy-lift rockets will be equipped with smart systems, cutting-edge materials, and eco-friendly technologies. "Intelligent technology will monitor flight data in real time and anticipate potential issues, improving reliability and safety," Wang added.

He also mentioned the use of high-strength and heat-resistant composite materials to enhance durability and performance, along with ongoing research into greener and more efficient propellants to minimize environmental impact. "We will incorporate cost-effective manufacturing to support sustainable development," Wang said.