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China is catching up to Elon Musk’s reusable rockets

China's state-owned space company, CASC, successfully launched and landed a Long March orbital rocket booster, becoming the second country to achieve reusable rocket technology. This move positions China to compete with SpaceX in satellite communications and global launch markets, particularly in regions like Africa and Southeast Asia. CASC aims to reuse the booster by year's end, reflecting growing competition in the space industry.

Key points

  • CASC launched and recovered a Long March orbital rocket booster, marking China as the second country to achieve this technology.
  • China's method captures the booster using netting on a recovery ship rather than landing legs, indicating innovation in recovery techniques.
  • CASC plans to attempt reuse of the booster by the end of 2023, which could lower launch costs.
  • SpaceX has dominated the market through its reusable Falcon 9 rockets, supporting projects like Starlink and contracts with NASA and the U.S. military.
  • The competition in satellite communications is heightened, particularly against Starlink due to China's emerging technology.
  • China and Russia's recent collaboration poses potential threats to Starlink's operations.
  • The U.S. military's strategic advantage in space could be diminished if China's space capabilities advance significantly.

Why it matters

  • The race for reusable rocket technology echoes past space races and is set against current geopolitical tensions.
  • As of 2025, the global space market is increasingly competitive, with multiple players like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Rocket Lab investing in reusable technologies.
  • SpaceX's recent challenges with its Starship highlight the aspect of risk and competition in advancing space technology.
  • The collaboration between China and Russia reflects trends in international cooperation in aerospace, contrasting against U.S.-led space initiatives.

China's advancements in reusable rocket technology mark a significant shift in the space industry, increasing competition with SpaceX and potentially altering global space dynamics by challenging U.S. military and commercial interests.