Reusable rockets aren’t sci-fi anymore—they’re becoming the backbone of modern space travel! 🌌 This year, the Chinese mainland solidified its role as a major player in the global race, with companies like LandSpace and state-backed programs pushing boundaries.
December 2025 saw two landmark launches: LandSpace’s methane-powered Zhuque-3 and the Long March-12A successfully delivered satellites to orbit. But nailing the landing? Still a work in progress. 🛬 "It’s like trying to balance a pencil on its tip during a hurricane," one engineer joked, referencing the hypersonic re-entry and precision required.
China’s strategy? Skip the baby steps. Both rockets attempted recovery tests during their first flights—a bold move that’s catching global attention. While Zhuque-3’s booster didn’t stick the landing, its stainless-steel design and clean-burning fuel could slash costs to $3,000/kg once mastered, rivaling SpaceX’s Falcon 9.
Globally, the competition is heating up: Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin reused its New Glenn rocket in November, Japan’s Honda aced a surprise vertical landing test, and India’s exploring spaceplane-style recovery. 🏎️💨
What’s next? 2026 promises fresh attempts from Chinese startups and established players. Spoiler alert: Some rockets will stick the landing. 🎯
