China Recovers Mengzhou Crewed Moon Spacecraft after Launch Escape Test

China Recovers Mengzhou Crewed Moon Spacecraft after Launch Escape Test

🚀🌑Another critical China Moon program milestone has been achieved. China has successfully completed the maximum dynamic pressure escape test of the Mengzhou crewed Moon spacecraft and a key low-altitude verification flight test of the new-generation reusable Long March 10 launch vehicle system. After liftoff at 11:00 a.m. Beijing time (03:00UTC) on February 11, 2026, China completed the in-flight abort test for the Mengzhou spacecraft. This critical safety demonstration is a major step forward for China's crewed lunar program.

Upon receiving the abort command, the spacecraft successfully executed separation and initiated its escape sequence. As planned, both the Long March 10 rocket's first stage and the spacecraft's return module achieved controlled and safe splashdowns within their designated maritime zones. The crew module and the first stage were then recovered.

In a future flight, the Long March 10's first stage recovery ship, Ling Hang Zhe, will perform a catch attempt. Meanwhile, the hooking arms of Long March 10 first stage deployed in this test before the splashdown as designed.

The Long March-10 rocket is a type of three-stage rocket with two boosters. It has a diameter of 5 meters and a maximum height of 92.5 meters. It is responsible for launching China's crewed lunar spacecraft and lunar lander Moon missions.

The Long March-10A is a type of two-stage reusable rocket with a diameter of 5 meters and a maximum height of 67 meters. Its first stage can be recycled and reused. It will support launches of the Mengzhou crewed spacecraft for lunar missions and of the Tianzhou cargo spacecraft for China's space station.

Video Credit: China National Space Administration (CNSA)

Duration: 40 seconds
Date: Feb. 11, 2026

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