China's Long March 10d Rocket Achieves First Net Recovery at Sea

China's Long March 10d carrier rocket has successfully achieved a controlled recovery of its first stage at sea, marking a global first for rocket net recovery technology. The launch took place from the Hainan commercial spaceport. Approximately six minutes after separation, the first stage returned vertically and was successfully recovered by a net on a maritime recovery platform.

This operation signifies China's first successful controlled recovery of a carrier rocket's first stage and is the world's inaugural use of net recovery for such a vehicle. The successful recovery is a critical step towards developing reusable rocket systems, which can significantly reduce the cost of space launches and increase launch frequency.

The Long March 10d is a derivative of the Long March 10 family, specifically designed for commercial applications, including cost-effective, high-frequency launches for low-Earth orbit satellite internet constellations and other large commercial satellites. It also serves as a technology validation platform for key lunar mission technologies, such as reusable first stages derived from crewed lunar landing programs and a parallel YF-100K engine configuration.

The recovery system involves a unique approach without landing legs, relying instead on a "flexible net capture" at sea. After stage separation and atmospheric re-entry, the rocket body deploys hooks designed to engage with a large arresting net. This net is deployed by the specialized recovery vessel "Linghangzhe," a 25,000-ton dynamically positioned platform, in a designated recovery zone.

This technological advancement positions China at the forefront of reusable space technology development. It is expected to accelerate the growth of China's commercial space sector and support its ambitious future space exploration programs, including crewed lunar missions.