China Prepares to Launch Long March 9 Rocket by 2033
- The Long March 9 rocket will showcase a fully reusable first stage powered by 30 YF-215 engines.
- The development is partly a response to SpaceX's reusable rocket technology.
- China's launch of the Long March 9 is crucial for future lunar explorations and competition with the United States.
China is developing the Long March 9 rocket, a super heavy-lift vehicle modeled closely after SpaceX's Starship, with a significant design revision aimed at incorporating a reusable first stage. The rocket is set to feature 30 YF-215 engines, which utilize methane and liquid oxygen for fuel. Planned for its first flight in 2033, the Long March 9 demonstrates China's commitment to advancing its space capabilities in the face of competition from SpaceX and NASA. As both nations look to explore the Moon's south pole region, the emerging rivalry underscores the significance of reusable rocket technology in achieving sustainable space travel. Initial lunar missions will be conducted using the Long March 10 vehicle, with the overarching goal of establishing lunar settlements highlighting the strategic implications of who first develops and successfully implements advanced rocket systems.