Space company works on new reusable rocket

Expace Technology in Hubei province has been working on a reusable rocket that will be propelled by liquid oxygen-methane engines.

With a thrust of 70 metric tons, the new engine has undergone ignition tests as well as vertical takeoff and landing tests, according to Zhao Shuang, marketing director at the company, which is a subsidiary of China Aerospace Science and Industry Corp, a major State-owned space contractor.

Compared with traditional types of rocket engines that can function only once, engines consuming liquid oxygen and methane have become popular because they are reusable, cost-efficient and more environmentally friendly.