China has successfully retrieved the first stage of the Long March-10 carrier rocket from the sea, completing the country’s first maritime salvage and recovery mission for a rocket first-stage booster. The operation was confirmed by the China Manned Space Agency following completion of the recovery by maritime search and recovery teams.

The Long March-10 launched at 11:00 a.m. Beijing Time on Wednesday. Shortly after launch, the first stage separated and conducted a controlled splashdown in a predetermined sea recovery zone, in line with mission planning.

Reusable launch vehicle development

The successful recovery represents a step forward in the development of reusable launch vehicle technology in China. The Long March-10 first-stage booster is designed for reuse and forms part of the Long March-10A rocket development programme.

Mission role and programme objectives

The Long March-10 rocket is designed primarily to support crewed lunar exploration missions. The vehicle is also intended to support near-Earth space station operations.