China Achieves First Sea-Based Rocket Booster Recovery, State Media Reports
China has successfully tested a sea-based system to recover rocket boosters using a net attached to an offshore platform, state media reported on Friday (July 10, 2026). The test marks a significant step in Beijing's efforts to develop reusable rocket technology, a field currently dominated by the United States.
The Long March 10B rocket lifted off from the Hainan commercial space launch site in southern China. Approximately six minutes after the booster separated from the upper stage, it returned vertically and was recovered on an offshore platform, according to state broadcaster CCTV.
The recovery was China's first successful controlled retrieval of a carrier rocket booster, CCTV said. The development is part of China's broader ambitions to reduce costs and increase the frequency of space launches, similar to the reusable rocket systems pioneered by U.S. companies like SpaceX.
While the test represents a technological milestone, experts note that China still lags behind the United States in reusable rocket capabilities. The U.S. has conducted numerous successful booster recoveries and landings over the past decade.
The Chinese government has invested heavily in its space program, with plans for crewed lunar missions and a permanent space station. The successful booster recovery is expected to accelerate these efforts by lowering launch costs.
No additional details on the test or the condition of the recovered booster were immediately available.
