Interstellar Glory Begins Pre-Research for Heavy "Double Curve Nine" Rocket
Chinese rocket company Interstellar Glory (星际荣耀) has initiated pre-research for its heavy-lift "Double Curve Nine" (双曲线九号) rocket. The rocket is intended for missions including lunar exploration, Mars missions, and deep space exploration.
Chinese private space technology firm Interstellar Glory (星际荣耀) announced it has begun pre-research for its heavy-lift "Double Curve Nine" (双曲线九号) carrier rocket. The announcement was made during the company's tenth-anniversary celebration video. The rocket is designed to meet future space mission requirements, such as crewed lunar missions, Mars exploration, and deep space operations.
According to plans, the "Double Curve Nine" will have a diameter of 11 meters and a liftoff thrust of approximately 7,000 tons. The first stage will utilize 33 liquid oxygen-methane engines, each with a thrust of 300 tons. Its payload capacity for low Earth orbit (LEO) is estimated at over 100 tons, and for geostationary transfer orbit (LTO) at 50 tons. The rocket's development also includes ambitious reusability goals.
The company plans for the first stage of the "Double Curve Nine" to be recoverable and capable of vertical landing. The second stage is reported to use aerodynamic deceleration and vertical landing for technical verification. Such reusability features are crucial for reducing the cost of spaceflight in the long term.
Interstellar Glory has previously developed rockets in the "Double Curve" series, including the small solid-propellant "Double Curve One" (SQX-1) and the mid-to-heavy lift, reusable liquid oxygen-methane "Double Curve Three" (SQX-3). The latter is scheduled for its first orbital flight in 2026 and includes a maritime recovery capability.
The commencement of pre-research for the "Double Curve Nine" signals the company's intent to expand into heavier payloads and more complex space operations, reinforcing its position in China's expanding private space sector.