🚀 Earlier today, December 23, 2025, China’s Long March-12A carrier rocket lifted off on its maiden mission, successfully placing its second stage into the preset orbit. While the first-stage recovery test didn’t go as planned, the flight delivered key data for future improvements.
Why it matters:
- It’s China’s second liquid oxygen–methane (LOx-CH4) rocket to attempt a reusable booster landing.
- LOx-CH4 engines burn cleaner and can be stored more easily than traditional fuels.
- The mission supplies hands-on data to refine landing tech—think precise retrorockets and controlled descents.
By analyzing on-orbit performance and recovery test data, engineers can tweak the booster’s landing legs and guidance systems for upcoming launches. It’s a major learning step in the reusable rocket game, popularized by SpaceX’s Falcon 9.
From Chennai to Ho Chi Minh City, young space enthusiasts and student engineers are buzzing with excitement. As Asia’s space scene heats up, sustainable fuel choices like LOx-CH4 are gaining momentum across the region.
Next up: a refined recovery test on the next Long March-12A flight. Stay tuned for the countdown! 🌟
Reference(s):
China's Long March-12A rocket reaches orbit on maiden flight
cgtn.com
