商业火箭，“芯级回收”走到哪一步了？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the advancements in China's commercial space industry, particularly focusing on the development of reusable rocket technology, exemplified by the "Gravity-2" rocket from Dongfang Space, which is set to complete its maiden flight by mid-2026 [1][4]. Group 1: Development of "Gravity-2" - Dongfang Space's "Gravity-2" is a medium-to-large liquid reusable launch vehicle designed for large-scale satellite networking and commercial high-orbit launch needs, featuring innovative core stage recovery technology [1][2]. - The core stage recovery technology is customized for commercial space needs, allowing for at least 30 reuses of the rocket body and enabling rapid turnaround with maintenance completed within 48 hours [2]. Group 2: Importance of Core Stage Recovery - The demand for satellite launches has surged due to the large-scale deployment of low Earth orbit communication satellite constellations, making reusable rockets more suitable for high-frequency launch scenarios [3]. - Reusable rockets significantly reduce the cost of each launch, with SpaceX's Falcon 9 demonstrating a cost reduction of approximately 20-30% per launch through recovery and reuse [3]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - China is accelerating its efforts in the reusable rocket sector, with both state-owned enterprises like China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation and private companies like Dongfang Space and Blue Arrow Aerospace focusing on this technology [5]. - The industry is witnessing a division in understanding of core stage recovery, with some companies prioritizing high-frequency near-Earth orbit launches, while others assess the economic viability of recovery mechanisms in more complex mission scenarios [6].