China has revealed a redesigned version of its Long March 9 rocket and the new design bears a striking resemblance to SpaceX’s Starship. This update was showcased earlier this week at an airshow in Zhuhai, signaling a major shift in China’s approach to reusable space technology.
The original design of the Long March 9 featured a three-stage configuration with solid rocket boosters. However, the new model transitions to a two-stage, fully reusable rocket.
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The first stage is equipped with 30 YF-215 engines fueled by methane and liquid oxygen. Each engine provides 200 tons of thrust to the rocket. This design mirrors SpaceX’s Starship, which uses 33 methane-fueled Raptor engines, delivering 280 tons of thrust each.
The second stage also includes aerodynamic flaps similar to those on Starship, emphasizing reusability as a core feature.
China’s space agency plans to launch the redesigned Long March 9 by 2033. The rocket is expected to support long-term lunar exploration and settlement.
Earlier missions to the moon will use the more conventional Long March 10 rocket. The new reusable design is expected to enable sustained operations, particularly near the lunar south pole. Experts believe that region harbors valuable water ice.
The development of the Long March 9 reflects a strategic pivot by China’s space program, influenced by the success of SpaceX’s reusable technology.
Both nations are racing to secure leadership in lunar exploration. NASA currently maintains a lead through its partnership with SpaceX and its advancements in heavy-lift reusable technology.
As China advances its Long March 9 project, the ongoing space race between the U.S. and China intensifies. Both countries are eyeing the moon as a key step in shaping the future of human space exploration.
