Zhuque-1, Сhina’s first privately-built rocket failed after launching from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center Sunday.
China’s first attempt to launch a commercially-built rocket into space failed, after the rocket’s third stage engine malfunctioned.
Beijing-based LandSpace said late Saturday that the launch proceeded as expected until something went wrong with the final stage. Zhuque-1, or ZQ-1, is the first commercially-built Chinese three-stage rocket.
“Cowling separation was normal but something abnormal happened after the second stage,” the company said in a statement, without providing any further details of the incident.
“We still believe that building rockets is the right strategy for the company. We are the first Chinese private company to build a three-stage carrier rocket. That’s already a great achievement,” the statement said. “We will carry on with our dream for vast space.”
The launch took place at Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in China’s northwestern Gansu Province Saturday. The 19-meter-long rocket, with a diameter of 1.35 meters, has a takeoff weight of 27 tons and a thrust of 45 tons, according to CGTN.
According to Chinese media report, ZQ-1 was carrying a “Future” satellite for Chinese CCTV broadcaster.
Sourse: sputniknews.com
