SMRTR TechDec 23, 2025Ars Technica

China just carried out its second reusable launch attempt in three weeks

SMRTR summary

China launched its second reusable rocket in three weeks with the Long March 12A successfully reaching orbit on its debut flight, but the methane-fueled first stage failed to complete its planned landing and crashed in the Gobi Desert. This follows a similar December launch where another Chinese rocket reached orbit but failed recovery, demonstrating China's rapid progress in reusable rocket technology despite landing challenges.

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