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China’s Institute 165 has successfully completed three tests of a liquid oxygen-kerosene engine in one day. The use of kerosene and liquid oxygen provides a cost-effective solution, while also boosting the rocket’s power
China is developing the Long March 9 spacecraft, comparable to SpaceX’s Starship. (AP File)
When it comes to producing the most affordable goods globally, China remains at the forefront. The nation has astonished even a technologically advanced country like the United States with its prowess in reverse engineering. Recently, China embarked on another significant experiment aimed at reducing the costs associated with space launches.
This technology could also help reduce the cost of lunar missions. While India is also pursuing this technology, China has not only conducted successful experiments but has also made significant advancements in its development.
What Milestone Has China Achieved
China’s Institute 165, part of the Sixth Academy of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing three consecutive tests of a liquid oxygen-kerosene engine in a single day. This accomplishment marks substantial progress in China’s development of main propulsion engines for its next generation of launch vehicles, ultimately enabling the nation to launch missions at an accelerated rate.
China has tested this technology
With this engine combination, China’s rockets will be able to carry a 500-ton payload into space. Additionally, using a liquid oxygen kerosene engine will make China’s spaceflight significantly more cost-effective, a characteristic for which the country is known. In April last year, China successfully conducted a parallel ignition test of four engines using this liquid oxygen kerosene technology.
How useful are these engines
Usually, the engines of rockets carrying satellites or spacecraft require not only fuel but also a supply of oxygen to maintain combustion. This is where liquid oxygen, acting as an oxidiser, becomes essential in rocket technology, specifically in medium cryogenic engines.
The combination of kerosene and liquid oxygen offers a cost-effective solution, while also enhancing the rocket’s power. Both substances are easily storable and manageable.
This technology offers advantages in engine design, requiring less space and weight compared to conventional engines. China’s ongoing efforts to refine this technology are steadily enhancing its rocket capabilities. These experiments will prove invaluable for future space missions, including the nation’s ambition to land astronauts on the moon by 2030.
Special preparations for lunar exploration
China invests heavily in its space programme but also makes significant efforts to minimise mission costs. In addition to government research, private companies in China are actively involved in these endeavours. Regarding lunar exploration, China is developing the Long March 9 spacecraft, comparable to SpaceX’s Starship, with a projected payload capacity of 1,500 kg.
China has also developed specialised spacesuits for its astronauts’ lunar missions. The nation’s accomplishments, including reaching the far side of the Moon, retrieving lunar samples, and deploying a rover on Mars, are remarkable. Given these achievements, experts believe China’s goal of landing astronauts on the Moon by 2030 is plausible.
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