In a groundbreaking achievement for space exploration, China has just wrapped up testing on a state-of-the-art 140-tonne liquid oxygen-methane rocket engine, poised to power the next generation of reusable carrier rockets. This monumental milestone was announced by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation's Academy of Aerospace Propulsion Technology.

Boasting the highest thrust of any current open-cycle liquid oxygen-methane engine in China, this innovative engine is set to be a cornerstone for future space-Earth transportation systems. Its impact can't be overstated; it will significantly enhance the capabilities of reusable launch vehicles and heavy-lift rocket development.

In an impressive display of rapid innovation, the academy highlighted that this successful test represents a significant breakthrough in the production of hundred-tonne-class liquid oxygen-methane engines, achieved in just seven months—a testament to China's commitment to swift advancements in space technology.

This follows the remarkable December 2024 test of a 90-tonne reusable liquid oxygen-kerosene engine aimed at commercial spacecraft. This event marked a pivotal moment for the nation as it shifts focus towards the burgeoning commercial space sector, which has been recognized as a key driver of economic growth in the 2024 government work report.

Looking ahead, the academy is not stopping here. Plans are already underway for the development of even heftier engines, specifically a reusable 200-tonne liquid oxygen-methane powerhouse. This ambitious trajectory reinforces China's aspirations to solidify its standing in the global aerospace arena, further reshaping the future of space travel.