China's Reusable Rocket: CAS Space Sets Ambitious Goal

Progress and Timeline

Chinese commercial space firm CAS Space is making significant strides in developing a reusable rocket.

The company has set August 2025 as the target date for the first launch of its Kinetica-2 rocket.

CAS Space's goal is to establish a reliable and cost-effective reusable launch vehicle system.

The development of a reusable rocket is a major milestone for China's space industry.

It will enable China to compete with established players like SpaceX in the global commercial launch market.

China has invested heavily in its space program, with a focus on reusable technologies.

CAS Space Industrial Base rocket research and production facility was recently inaugurated.
The facility includes assembly, testing, and launch capabilities for the Kinetica-2 rocket.
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), China's leading space contractor, supports CAS Space's efforts.

Reduced launch costs due to the ability to reuse the rocket's expensive first stage.
Increased launch frequency, as rockets can be refurbished and relaunched quickly.
Enhanced environmental sustainability, as reusable rockets reduce the amount of space debris.

China is not the only country pursuing reusable rocket technology.

SpaceX has been a pioneer in this field, successfully landing and reusing its Falcon 9 rockets.

Other companies and organizations, such as Blue Origin and the European Space Agency, are also developing reusable launch systems.