13:47 Zhuque-3 Reusable Launch Vehicle Launched into Orbit

On December 3, the Zhuque-3 Yao-1 launch vehicle lifted off from the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Test Zone, successfully completing its flight mission as scheduled, with the rocket's second stage entering the designated orbit. The mission also included a verification test for the recovery of the rocket's first stage. However, an abnormal combustion occurred during the process, preventing a soft landing at the recovery site and resulting in a failed recovery test. The specific cause is currently under further analysis and investigation.

Although this mission did not achieve the intended first stage recovery goal, it validated the correctness and rationality of the Zhuque-3 launch vehicle's testing, launching, and flight procedures, as well as the compatibility of system interfaces. Critical engineering data under real flight conditions were obtained, laying an important foundation for subsequent launch services and the reliable, reusable recovery of sub-stages. (Xinhua News Agency)