DIGIVESTASI - China Challenges U.S. Dominance with Reusable Long March 9 Rocket, China is intensifying its competition with the United States in the space technology sector, particularly in the development of reusable rockets. Recently, Chinese space contractors unveiled the concept of the reusable Long March 9 rocket during the Zhuhai Airshow in Guangdong on November 12, 2024.  

This rocket is designed to rival similar technology from SpaceX, the American space company led by Elon Musk. The Long March 9 shares several similarities with SpaceX’s Starship and Raptor engines, including the use of 30 YF-215 engines powered by methane and liquid oxygen in its first stage.  

Design Inspired by SpaceX, Focused on Efficiency

Measuring 114 meters in length, the Long March 9 features advanced capabilities, including grid fins on the first stage, reminiscent of SpaceX rocket designs. An animated video released by Chinese developers showcases the rocket’s second stage performing a “belly flop” maneuver during atmospheric reentry, followed by a vertical landing using thrust propulsion.  

Chen Ziyu, a designer at the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT), stated that the Long March 9 is designed to carry payloads of up to 100 tons to low Earth orbit (LEO) and 50 tons to lunar transfer orbit. The rocket aims to support a variety of space missions, from low Earth orbit deployments to deep space exploration.  

Development Stages and Future Plans

According to Chen, the development of the Long March 9 will proceed in two phases. The first phase focuses on heavy-lift capabilities to enhance access to space, while the second phase will introduce a fully reusable two-stage rocket. “We aim to develop a fully reusable two-stage configuration with flexible designs tailored for diverse orbital missions,” said Chen, as reported by *SpaceNews*.  

China has been working on this heavy-lift rocket project for years. The Long March 9 design has evolved over time, transitioning from kerosene-powered boosters with a 10-meter diameter to four methane-powered side boosters, each with a diameter of 5 meters.  

Supporting Megaconstellation Satellite Ambitions

As part of its broader space ambitions, China plans to develop two satellite megaconstellations in low Earth orbit, each comprising approximately 13,000 satellites. The Long March 9 is expected to play a pivotal role in these projects, with its ability to launch large payloads into orbit, akin to SpaceX’s deployment of its Starlink satellites.  

Aggressive Steps Toward Space Leadership

With this bold move, China is demonstrating its significant ambitions to rival the U.S. in space exploration while solidifying its strategic position in global space technology.

Find more news and articles on Google News