Vertical Rocket Landing Tests Conducted by Chinese Launch Company Using Jet-Powered Prototype (Video)
China’s largest launcher of commercial satellites, China Rocket Co. Ltd. (CALT), has tested a small-scale version of its vertical landing rocket prototype, Jielong-1 (Smart Dragon-1), powered by a jet engine. The new technology aims to provide an affordable and reusable launch vehicle for small satellite launches.
What is the Jielong-1 Vertical Landing Rocket Prototype?
Jielong-1, also known as Smart Dragon-1, is a sea-based launch vehicle developed by China Rocket Co. Ltd. (CALT) in 2018. The rocket will be equipped with a jet-powered propulsion system, and a vertical landing feature. It is designed to launch small satellites weighing up to 500kg, into low earth orbit.
How did the Test Go?
Recently, the company conducted a vertical landing test at an undisclosed location. During the test, the 11-meter-tall prototype reached an altitude of around 300m before returning back with the help of its jet engine. The test was a success, and it proved that the technology is viable and the rocket can be reused.
The Pros of Vertical Landing Rockets
The ability to reuse rocket boosters can make space travel much cheaper than before. For example, SpaceX has used vertical landing technology to land its rocket boosters, which has allowed them to save millions of dollars while delivering payloads to orbit. The successful prototype landing of Jielong-1 (Smart Dragon-1) is a huge step forward for China in the race to make space launches more efficient and affordable.
Chinese Space Launch Industry to Revolutionize Space Flight
China has been working hard to modernize its space launch industry so it can become more competitive. If Jielong-1 (Smart Dragon-1) proves successful, it would become one of China’s primary ways to launch small satellites into orbit. The Chinese space industry is booming, and the government has invested billions of dollars into developing new launch technologies, as well as advancing scientific and exploration missions.
Conclusion
The Chinese launch company, CALT’s testing of its Jielong-1 (Smart Dragon-1) prototype appears to have been successful. The vertical landing technology will soon provide an affordable and reusable launch vehicle for small satellite launches. This successful venture is an exciting development for the Chinese space industry and could help speed up China’s race to become a key player in the space launch industry. #ChineseRocketLaunch #ChinaSpaceIndustry #Jielong1 #BUSINESS