Overview
- LandSpace completed a static fire on October 20 as part of final pre-launch checks, with vertical integration rehearsal and inspections next, according to the company.
- The firm says the inaugural orbital flight could occur within weeks, with an aim to fly before the end of the year.
- Zhuque-3 is a two-stage methane–liquid oxygen launcher with a nine-engine first stage designed for reuse and an expendable upper stage.
- Reported payload capability varies across outlets, with figures of about 18,300 kg to low Earth orbit and an alternative 21,000 kg in expendable mode.
- Coverage differs on the test site in northwest China, with reports citing either the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Pilot Zone or the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.