China successfully tests reusable rocket engine for Long March 5G lunar rocket

In the second half of this decade, China wants to start delivering cargo into lunar orbit with the new Long March rockets. An engine is being developed for them, which has recently been successfully tested.

Here's What We Know

The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) plans to fly to the moon using two rockets: the Long March 9 and Long March 5G. The first will appear at least in 2030. It will have a height of 110 meters and will be able to deliver up to 50 tons of cargo into orbit. The second rocket will be capable of carrying half as much of the payload, but the launches are to start no later than 2027.

Recently China has successfully tested the YF-100N engine, which is designed specifically for the Long March 5G. A total of 21 engines will be created for the boosters and the first stage, each of which will be able to develop a thrust of 130 tons. By the way, tests of the engine for the Long March 9 are also underway. It is called YF-130 and has a thrust of 500 tons.

At the end of November, the Chinese specialists were able to perform a restart of the engine as part of the tests. This is necessary so that the first stage and boosters can return home after putting the cargo into orbit. The return procedure is the same as for SpaceX. The first stage and boosters will be driven to a pad in the ocean.

Source: scmp