China has become the first company in the world to launch a methane-powered rocket.

China launches six satellites with methane-powered rocket:

Chinese LandSpace has made a mark in history by launching a methane-fueled rocket on Saturday. The Chinese Space Industry reinforces the potential of methane as a cleaner, cost-effective fuel for reusable rockets. The Zhuque-2E Y2 rocket lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China. It was the fifth launch in the Zhuque-2 series. It shows steady progress in the company’s pursuit of advanced rocket technology.

The first country to use methane-liquid oxygen fuel:

LandSpace made global headlines by becoming the first company in the world to successfully launch a rocket powered by methane and liquid oxygen. It is less toxic, more affordable, and ideal for reusable rockets. LandSpace’s work shows that methane can be both practical and powerful.

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Bigger payload, Bigger ambitions:

The payload capacity of the Zhuque-2 has been increased. It shows the company’s readiness to meet the growing demands of China’s commercial space sector. The first methane-powered launch in 2023 didn’t carry real satellites, while the second in December 2023 successfully deployed three. This weekend’s launch doubled that. It placed six satellites into orbit, thus proving the rocket’s reliability.

Reusable rockets on the horizon:

LandSpace is focusing on reusability. The company’s CEO revealed that they are actively developing reusable rockets and plan to test one by late 2025. China’s recent rocket launch used super-chilled methane and oxygen. It is a method that increases engine performance by boosting thrust.

Backed by strong investment and state support:

LandSpace is one of the earliest and most well-funded private space firms in China. The company is backed by major investors like HongShan (formerly Sequoia Capital China), Country Garden, and the China SME Development Fund. LandSpace secured 900 million yuan ($120 million) from a state-run fund focused on high-tech manufacturing. It raised 1.2 billion yuan ($170 million), thus showing strong investor confidence in its vision.