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last mo.

China Recovers Long March 10B Booster in Maiden Flight With Sea‑Based Net Capture

The test validates a net‑and‑hook recovery approach that could cut launch costs for commercial satellites and inform China’s crewed lunar program before 2030.

China reusable rocket
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A Long March-10 carrier rocket blasts off from Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Wenchang, Hainan Province of China on July 10, 2026.
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Overview

  • China’s Long March 10B completed its maiden orbital launch on Friday, placing a satellite into its planned orbit and returning the first stage for a controlled capture on a seaborne platform.
  • The booster was caught using four landing hooks and a tensioned net on an offshore recovery vessel, with hydraulic damping to absorb impact instead of traditional landing legs.
  • CASC and CALT say the reusable configuration can carry about 16 tonnes to low Earth orbit and state media reported the recovered stage is scheduled for a reflown test before the end of 2026.
  • Analysts say the milestone narrows a capability gap with U.S. firms but does not match SpaceX’s extensive operational experience in routine booster landings and repeated reuse.
  • The recovery could lower per‑launch costs, speed China’s commercial launch growth, and supply technology and data for the Long March 10 family that is being developed for crewed lunar missions.