China's Changzheng-10B Rocket Achieves Sea-Based Net Recovery
China has successfully conducted its first controlled recovery of a rocket first stage using net technology at sea. The Changzheng-10B rocket's first stage was successfully recovered on July 10.
China successfully achieved the world's first controlled recovery of a rocket's first stage using net technology at sea. The first stage of the Changzheng-10B carrier rocket returned in a controlled manner and was successfully recovered on a maritime recovery platform on July 10. This marks China's first successful controlled recovery of a first-stage rocket and the first global instance of net-based rocket recovery.
The Changzheng-10B, measuring 63.6 meters, utilizes liquid oxygen-kerosene engines for its first stage and newly developed liquid oxygen-methane engines for its second stage. Its capability to carry 16 tons to low Earth orbit positions it for larger payloads and commercial satellite launches. The rocket has a 5-meter diameter and aims to significantly reduce launch costs through reusability.
The recovery process involved several key technologies. Three of the Changzheng-10B's first stage engines were reignited for deceleration during descent and the final landing. Grid fins were employed for attitude control, similar to flight control surfaces on aircraft. Additionally, a unique hook mechanism, analogous to the technology used for carrier-based aircraft landings, was used to catch a cable that secured the rocket within the recovery platform's net.
The second stage is engineered for cost-effectiveness to meet commercial launch demands. The first stage from the reusable Changzheng-10A will be utilized with the Changzheng-10B, minimizing the need to manufacture new first stages. This approach maximizes the use of existing infrastructure and supports more sustainable space launch operations.