• LandSpace's Zhuque-2E Y2 successfully launched six satellites into orbit.
• This marks the fifth flight for the Zhuque-2 series.
• LandSpace aims to develop reusable rocket technology.
• The launch featured a new propulsion method that enhances thrust.
• Increasing competition in China's commercial space industry motivates these advancements.

A new methane-powered rocket developed by China's LandSpace Technology launched six satellites into orbit on May 18, a move that emphasizes the startup's commitment to utilizing cheaper and cleaner fuel. The Zhuque-2E Y2 carrier rocket lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, marking its fifth flight for the Zhuque-2 series, according to a company statement from Reuters.

This launch positions LandSpace as a leader in innovative rocket technology, as it became the world's first company to successfully launch a methane-liquid oxygen rocket in July 2023, outpacing notable U.S. rivals like SpaceX and Blue Origin, as mentioned by Dawn and TRT Global. The use of methane fuel is seen as a safer and more economical choice compared to traditional hydrocarbon fuels, and is suitable for facilitating the development of reusable rockets.

The payload for Saturday's mission reflects an increasing demand in China's burgeoning commercial space industry, which is racing to create satellite constellations as alternatives to Musk's Starlink. LandSpace previously launched without real satellites but its second rocket successfully deployed three satellites in December 2023, with the current mission putting six into orbit, according to Channel News Asia.

The launch featured an improved propulsion method that chills liquid oxygen and methane below their boiling points, enhancing thrust capability. This innovation aligns with LandSpace's plans for developing reusable rocket technology, with aspirations to conduct a test launch by the second half of 2025, according to comments from founder and CEO Zhang Changwu provided by Reuters and Dawn.

The launch on May 18 also included satellites primarily developed by Spacety, an institute focused on environmental monitoring and scientific research. This reflects the cooperative efforts within the Chinese commercial space sector, which has rapidly evolved since private investments were allowed in 2014. LandSpace, being one of the pioneering and best-funded companies in this domain, has attracted substantial investments, including 900 million yuan ($120 million) from a state-owned fund, according to data from TRT Global and Channel News Asia.