Beijing, China – A recent incident at Tianbing Aerospace Technology has caused quite a stir in the Chinese space industry. The aerospace firm accidentally launched its Tianlong-3 rocket during a test, leading to a dramatic crash into a nearby mountainside. The mishap occurred during a first-stage test of the rocket’s power system, resulting in a structural failure that caused the rocket to separate from its launchpad.
The Tianlong-3 rocket, designed to rival SpaceX’s Falcon 9, was supposed to remain stationary on the launchpad during the test. However, the unexpected launch led to a fiery explosion as the rocket soared into the sky before plummeting back to the ground.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the incident, with local authorities confirming that the explosion caused a fire away from residential areas. The Tianlong-3 rocket, with a takeoff mass similar to that of the Falcon 9, is intended for satellite delivery to orbit and is touted as partially reusable for up to 10 trips.
Tianbing Aerospace Technology is one of several Chinese private space rocket companies that have gained prominence in recent years. In April 2023, the company launched the Tianlong-2 rocket, powered by coal-based kerosene. The Tianlong-3, featuring nine engines and hailed as a revolutionary rocket for China’s space industry, promises to deliver a potent power system three times more powerful than any previous test in China’s aerospace industry.
This incident comes at a time when Chinese leader Xi Jinping has called for closer collaboration between the country’s science sector and the state to escalate China’s technological development. The mishap at Tianbing serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks involved in pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology. As China continues to invest in cutting-edge innovations, the space industry’s future remains a dynamic and competitive landscape.