CAS Space's Lijian-1 Rocket Failure

BEIJING (Reuters) – CAS Space, a leading Chinese commercial rocket company, reported an unexpected failure of its Lijian-1 rocket on Friday. This incident marks the first major setback for the company since its inaugural flight in 2022.

Successful Launches Prior to Failure

Until this event, CAS Space had successfully launched 57 satellites across five Lijian-1 flights. The latest launch failed shortly after liftoff, causing the solid-propellant rocket to initiate self-destruction. CAS Space did not disclose the number of satellites aboard the ill-fated mission but had previously indicated plans to deliver 11 satellites.

Previous Success Stakes

In November, a successful Lijian-1 launch delivered 15 satellites, including a remote-sensing satellite for Oman, which marked the company’s first international client. According to Shi Xiaoning, the rocket's chief designer, the cost performance and reliability of Lijian-1 were well recognized in the international market.

Future Plans

CAS Space is progressing towards the launch of its next rocket, Lijian-2, expected in 2025. This failure is a rare occurrence within the rapidly expanding Chinese commercial space sector, where competition for both local and international clients is intensifying.

Jielong-3, a rocket developed by China Rocket Co, poses a close challenge to Lijian-1 based on payload capacity. The Jielong-3 had its fourth launch in September.

Government Support

Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized the need to expand strategic industries, including the commercial space sector, which is crucial for creating satellite constellations for communications, remote sensing, and navigation.