What surprises and expectations will China's manned space program have in 2025? Take a sneak peek at the highlightsThis year, Zhuque-3 plans to carry out three launch missions and complete the first-level recovery test, including the launch of the "GW" constellation and providing capacity support for the commercial cargo spacecraft of the space station. At present, all pre-launch preparations are progressing smoothly.He Bin said: "In the next two years, Zhuque-2 and Zhuque-3 will gradually switch from the research and development mode to the operation mode, and will successively enter the steady operation stage. In 2025, Zhuque-2 is expected to deliver 6 launches, which can provide a carrying capacity of 24 tons in the 500-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit; Zhuque-3 will carry out its first flight launch in the third quarter of this year, and plans to carry out 3 flight missions this year, which can provide a capacity of about 60 tons. At present, Zhuque-3 has begun to enter the relevant process of power system test run."
This is the same as https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=62426.0.
It is said this will be launched on August 15, though I am n doubt...
Quote from: mikezang on 08/09/2025 10:05 amIt is said this will be launched on August 15, though I am n doubt...I suggest to post no dubious rumours in this forum. They are useless.
The second ZQ-3's first stage is almost completed.
ZhuQue-3 (ZQ-3) Reusable Launch Vehicle Enters Final Preparations for Maiden FlightFrom October 18 to 20, 2025, ZhuQue-3 (ZQ-3) Y1 reusable launch vehicle successfully completed the first phase of its maiden flight campaign — full-scale propellant loading rehearsal and static fire test at the No. 2 launch pad for LOX–methane rockets in the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Pilot Zone.The vehicle will next proceed with planned vertical integration rehearsal, before returning to the technical zone for inspection and maintenance in preparation for its upcoming orbital launch and first-stage recovery.ZQ-3’s maiden flight campaign consists of two phases:Phase I:- Propellant loading rehearsal- Static fire test- Post-test maintenancePhase II:- Main objective: Orbital launch- Attempt first-stage recoveryThis test campaign covered the full operational sequence. Including horizontal transportation and erection, fully subcooled propellant loading, integrated ground test launch and control procedures, ignition and hold-down verification of nine TianQue-12A (TQ-12A) engines, and propellant detanking. The test campaign comprehensively validating the rationality of the launch process and the compatibility between the vahicle and the ground systems.Officially initiated in August 2023, ZhuQue-3 is a large, reusable liquid-fueled launch vehicle independently developed by LandSpace for large-scale constellation deployment missions.The vehicle features a 4.5-meter body diameter, a 5.2-meter fairing, an overall length of 66.1 meters, and a liftoff mass over 570 tons, delivering over 750 tons of liftoff thrust.Constructed primarily from stainless steel, the first stage is equipped with nine TianQue-12A LOX–methane engines and includes an RCS system, grid fins, and landing legs required for stage recovery — enabling precise autonomous return, soft landing, and reuse.LandSpace upholds flight safety and system reliability as top priorities, maintaining a pragmatic and steady pace toward innovation. Following the successful full-system static fire test of first-stage propulsion system in June this year, this phase marks the final major ground verification prior to maiden launch.We will now analyze test data, refine procedures and contingency plans, and move forward with the second-phase operations in a safe and orderly manner — striving for a fully successful launch and recovery, and taking a solid step toward the engineering and large-scale application of reusable launch vehicles.ZQ-3 Maiden Flight Mission Dual Emblems — “Land to Infinity”The twin emblems of the ZQ-3 maiden flight mission draw inspiration from its dual test objectives — launch and recovery. The first emblem, “Departure,” symbolizes liftoff and embodies the aspiration to reach the skies. The second, “Return,” represents the planned first-stage landing in the recovery site, signifying the 1st stage’s return to Earth.Together, the two emblems form a complete narrative of ZQ-3 Y1’s journey — from reaching for the stars to coming home to the land. They reflect LandSpace’s enduring spirit of courage and perseverance in pushing the boundaries of reusable spaceflight.
On November 9th, Jiemian News exclusively learned from the industry chain that China's reusable rocket "Zhuque-3" will make its maiden flight in mid-to-late November.Currently, the Zhuque-3 has entered the critical preparation stage for its maiden flight. Recently, the maiden flight successfully completed fueling and static fire tests, laying the groundwork for a formal orbital launch and first-stage recovery.
LandSpace's Zhuque-3 rocket launch date is set for November 29th.The launch date for LandSpace's Zhuque-3 rocket has been confirmed, and several travel agencies have begun accepting reservations for on-site viewing of the launch of China's first reusable rocket, with costs estimated at over 3,000 yuan.
Blue Arrow Aerospace Suzaku 3 will make its first flight on November 29Kechuang Board DailyThe reporter learned that the first flight plan of Beijing Blue Arrow Aerospace Zhuque-3 launch vehicle has entered the final preparation stage, and it is planned to make its first flight this Saturday, November 29.Previously, Musk continuously posted comments on Zhuque 3 on the social platform X, not only affirming its technical potential, but also emphasizing the gap with his own rocket.
