HELSINKI — In a thrilling development for the space industry,

Chinese launch firm Cosmoleap has secured more than 100 million yuan (approximately $14 million) for its ambitious Yueqian reusable rocket project, which boasts an innovative recovery system inspired by SpaceX's successful strategies.

Funding Announcement

On November 1, Cosmoleap announced this significant funding milestone, which saw participation from Shenergy Chengyi—a Shanghai-based state-owned company focused on pioneering investments—alongside other notable investors such as Tiangchuang Capital, Baiyan Fund, Legend Capital, and individual investor Zhang Chao. This funding will play a crucial role in the company's quest to dominate the burgeoning space market.

About Cosmoleap

Founded in March 2024, Beijing Dahang Transition Technology Co., Ltd. (Cosmoleap) aims to develop a low-cost, high-reliability, reusable launch vehicle primarily to support the construction of satellite internet systems, closely aligned with China’s grand plans for massive satellite constellations.

Inaugural Test Flight Plans

Cosmoleap plans to conduct its inaugural test flight of the 'Yueqian' or 'Leap' rocket by 2025 or 2026. The company unveiled an animated video during the funding announcement that illustrates its departure from traditional landing techniques, showcasing a novel tower and 'chopstick' landing method recently demonstrated by SpaceX with its Starship. This innovative approach could redefine how rockets are recovered and reused.

Rocket Specifications

The Yueqian rocket, fueled by methane, will have a diameter of 4.0 meters and a length of 75 meters. It is designed with an impressive payload capacity, accommodating up to 10,460 kilograms in an expendable configuration or 6,280 kilograms when using the recovery system to bring the first stage back.

Future Plans

In addition, Cosmoleap is looking ahead to a more massive rocket—extending 126 meters in length—capable of carrying 100 tons to the same orbit in expendable mode or 36 tons when reused. The company has ambitious plans for its first launch around 2030.

Investor Confidence

Investors are optimistic about Cosmoleap’s entry into the commercial space sector, which has been thriving since 2015, believing the company can leverage its position as a latecomer to gain momentum in a field already populated by competitors like Landspace, Galactic Energy, and iSpace, along with reusable Long March rockets developed by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).

Presentation at International Astronautical Congress

Furthermore, a representative from Cosmoleap took the stage at the recent International Astronautical Congress in Milan, Italy, unveiling ambitious plans and contradicting reports regarding the company's operational timeline. Detailed in the presentation was the claim that the medium-sized reusable commercial launch vehicle has completed three years of rigorous design and ground testing, with a first flight lined up for 2025.

Government Support for Commercial Space Sector

The Chinese central government is committed to fostering the commercial space sector as an emerging strategic priority. Provinces and cities across China are busy formulating action plans to attract and cultivate a new generation of space companies, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in the industry. Stay tuned as Cosmoleap aims to take the world of space travel by storm!