10-kilometre VTVL test

The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) conducted a successful vertical takeoff, vertical landing (VTVL) test at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, China, on 23 June 2024, at about 05:00 UTC (13:00 local time). The 3.8 m diameter test launch vehicle is equipped with three LongYun 70 reusable liquid oxygen/liquid methane engines (LY-70, ground thrust 70 ton). The test lasted for about six minutes, achieving an altitude of about 12 kilometres. According to official sources, a 75-kilometre VTVL test is scheduled by the end of the year and the first flight of a 4 m diameter reusable launch vehicle is expected in 2025. Credit: China Central Television (CCTV)/China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC)