Zhuhai (TDI): Chinese private rocket firm LandSpace is making significant strides in satellite internet technology, bolstering China’s position in the global space-based internet race.
Key to these efforts is the development of the Spacesail Constellation, with 18 satellites launched from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in August, marking a new phase in China’s ambitions for a comprehensive satellite internet network.
As China scales up its satellite constellation, it is focused on achieving cost-effective, frequent, and high-capacity launches, underpinned by advancements in satellite communication payloads.
LandSpace’s Zhuque-2 and Zhuque-3 reusable rockets, central to these plans, are projected to support an annual launch capacity of 244 tonnes by 2026, according to LandSpace CEO Zhang Changwu, speaking at the Airshow China in Zhuhai.
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The Zhuque-2 rocket is set for six launches in 2025, while Zhuque-3 will undertake its maiden flight and three additional launches.
This launch frequency is essential for building out China’s satellite internet infrastructure, Xinhua reported.
In a notable achievement this year, LandSpace completed successful vertical take-off and landing tests at both 100-meter and 10,000-meter levels, advancing reusable rocket technology.
Additionally, the company has developed 83 Tianque engines, with cumulative test durations of nearly 130,000 seconds, achieving breakthroughs in liquid oxygen-methane propulsion. Zhuque-2, now the world’s first methane-fueled rocket to reach orbit, is powered by these engines.
Maintaining stringent national quality and safety standards, LandSpace has implemented a rigorous quality management system.
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Future plans include the development of larger-diameter liquid oxygen-methane rockets to meet the growing demands of China’s satellite internet missions.
Zhang affirmed the company’s commitment to bolstering China’s space capabilities and supporting high-quality commercial space development.
