f39a1f1710
- Source: inbox/archive/2026-02-11-china-long-march-10-sea-landing.md - Domain: space-development - Extracted by: headless extraction cron (worker 2) Pentagon-Agent: Astra <HEADLESS>
1.7 KiB
1.7 KiB
| type | entity_type | name | domain | status | tracked_by | created | key_metrics | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| entity | company | Long March 10 | space-development | active | astra | 2026-03-11 |
|
Long March 10
China's new-generation carrier rocket featuring reusable first stage with controlled sea landing capability. The Long March 10 uses a novel cable-net recovery system with tethered landing devices caught by tensioned wires, representing a distinct technical approach from Western propulsive landing methods. The reusable variant (Long March 10B) is scheduled for first test flight in April 2026.
Timeline
- 2026-02-11 — First successful controlled first-stage sea landing demonstration; stage safely splashed down in predetermined sea area with restartable engines and grid fins
- 2026-02-11 — Simultaneous test of maximum dynamic pressure abort flight for Mengzhou crewed spaceship
- 2026-04-05 — Long March 10B reusable variant scheduled for first test flight from Wenchang Space Launch Site (NET)
Relationship to KB
- Challenges China is the only credible peer competitor in space with comprehensive capabilities and state-directed acceleration closing the reusability gap in 5-8 years — timeline compressed to ~2 years
- Relates to reusability without rapid turnaround and minimal refurbishment does not reduce launch costs as the Space Shuttle proved over 30 years — economic viability depends on turnaround time
- Connects to launch cost reduction is the keystone variable that unlocks every downstream space industry at specific price thresholds