Core Viewpoint - The successful ground test of the Zhuque-3 reusable launch vehicle's first-stage propulsion system marks a significant advancement in China's liquid rocket technology, paving the way for its upcoming maiden flight and the engineering realization of reusable launch vehicle technology [1][3][5]. Group 1: Test Details - The ground test conducted on June 20 was the largest and most automated nine-engine parallel ground hot test in China to date, achieving unprecedented complexity and fidelity to actual flight conditions [3]. - The test utilized a first-stage vehicle identical to that of the Zhuque-3 maiden flight, covering the entire ground measurement and launch process, including propellant loading, tank pressurization, engine ignition, steady-state operation, and program shutdown [3][5]. - The test conditions replicated flight conditions, ensuring that the ground testing accurately reflected how the vehicle would perform in the air [3]. Group 2: Technical Achievements - The propulsion system test employed the self-developed Tianque-12A liquid oxygen-methane engine, achieving a total thrust of 7542 kN from the nine engines operating in parallel [5]. - All systems functioned normally during the test, with accurate engine ignition sequencing and stable thrust, indicating a successful test outcome [5]. - This test signifies important breakthroughs in key technologies such as simultaneous multi-engine ignition, multi-stage propellant distribution, and combustion stability for China's liquid rocket propulsion systems [5]. Group 3: Vehicle Specifications - The Zhuque-3 launch vehicle is China's first large liquid oxygen-methane rocket with a stainless steel structure and first-stage reusability capability, with a launch weight of approximately 570 tons and a total length of about 66 meters [6]. - The first stage is configured with nine Tianque-12A engines working in parallel, equipped with an auxiliary power system and deployable grid fins, enabling controlled recovery and landing capabilities [6].

Core Viewpoint - The successful completion of the first integrated test of a 140-ton reusable liquid oxygen-methane engine marks a significant breakthrough in China's development of large-scale liquid oxygen-methane engines, which are crucial for reusable launch vehicles and heavy-lift rockets [1] Group 1 - The 140-ton liquid oxygen-methane engine is currently the largest open-cycle liquid oxygen-methane engine in China, providing essential core power for reusable launch vehicles [1] - The engine's development began in September 2024, with the program review completed in the same month, and the first successful integrated test was achieved in just seven months [1] - This engine is expected to play a vital role in various fields, including the transportation system between Earth and space, reusable vehicles, and heavy-lift rockets [1]