On July 10, 2026, China reached a pivotal milestone in its quest to establish itself as a formidable space power. During its inaugural flight, the first stage of the Long March-10B (CZ-10B) was successfully landed and recovered, showcasing the nation’s growing capabilities in rocket technology.
The Long March-10B is a partially reusable rocket, featuring a retrievable first-stage booster and an expendable second stage. This design is reminiscent of other modern rockets, such as Blue Origin’s New Glenn. The vehicle lifted off at 12:15 pm local time from the Hainan International Commercial Aerospace Launch Center in southern China, successfully delivering a satellite into orbit.
Approximately six minutes post-launch, the first stage was secured using a novel cable recovery system aboard a specially designed vessel positioned off the coast of Hainan. This event marks the first successful recovery of a booster by China’s net system and represents the country’s inaugural maritime rocket recovery. With this achievement, the Long March-10B becomes only the fifth orbital-class rocket system to be recovered after a propulsive landing.
Specifications and Design
Standing at 70.2 meters (230 ft) tall and with a diameter of 5 meters (16.4 ft), the Long March-10B shares its first-stage core with the Long March-10A. It is equipped with seven liquid oxygen (LOX) and liquid kerosene engines, while its upper stage utilizes a LOX and liquid methane engine. The rocket boasts a payload capacity of up to 16 metric tons (U.S. tons), enabling it to support the deployment of commercial payloads, including large satellite constellations.
Recovery Mechanism
Unlike other reusable rocket systems, such as SpaceX’s Falcon 9, which employs deployable landing legs, the Long March-10B utilizes a unique net-capture recovery system. As the booster descends, a rocket-mounted hook deploys to connect with tension cables, which slow its descent. A system of nets then catches the booster, while auxiliary cables stabilize it amid ocean waves and wind. An automated locking platform subsequently moves beneath the booster to secure it for transport.
Future Implications
The successful test of the Long March-10B positions China as a significant contender in the commercial space and satellite market. This achievement is part of a broader strategy, as the country prepares to send taikonauts to the Moon, with missions currently planned for 2030. The recovery of the Long March-10B is one of many milestones that highlight China’s rapid advancements in the space sector.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
