Methane rocket sends satellites into orbit - Big advancement by China in space race

Successful launch: The Zhuque-2 Y-3 carrier rocket lifting off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. — Reuters

A ROCKET developed by LandSpace Technology launched three satellites into orbit, a milestone in the Chinese private rocket startup’s mission to test whether its vehicle using methane and liquid oxygen is ready for commercial liftoffs.

The success could boost investor confidence in methane as a potential rocket fuel, which is deemed able to help slash costs and support reusable rockets in a cleaner and more efficient way.