China’s commercial space sector just leveled up! CAS Space, a leading aerospace developer, announced the successful delivery of its cutting-edge Liqing-2 liquid oxygen kerosene engine—a key player in powering the future of space exploration. 🌌
Engine Specs That Pack a Punch
This 110-tonne thrust engine uses advanced pin injection tech in its gas generator and thrust chamber, allowing it to adjust its thrust between 50% to 100%. Translation? It’s like having a rocket engine with a turbo button. 🎮
From Blueprint to Blastoff
Approved in mid-2023 and rolling off production lines by early 2024, the Liqing-2 aced its final tests—including a rigorous liquid flow trial—by early 2025. It’s now set to join the Lijian rocket series, which has already launched 57 satellites across five missions. 🛰️
Why This Matters
CAS Space, backed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, is fast-tracking innovation in reusable rocket tech. With engines like the Liqing-2, China’s commercial space sector is competing in the global space race—think fewer launch costs, more cosmic possibilities. 💥
Reference(s):
Chinese developer completes delivery of Liqing-2 rocket engine
cgtn.com