China has successfully completed its first sea-based recovery of a reusable rocket, using a net-capture system to retrieve the first stage of the Long March-10B carrier rocket after its July 10 launch from the Hainan commercial spacecraft launch site.

The mission marked the world’s first successful carrier rocket recovery using a net-capture system, with the rocket’s first stage safely landing on an offshore recovery vessel after completing a controlled descent.

The achievement demonstrates China’s progress in reusable rocket technology, which is expected to reduce launch costs, improve payload efficiency, and support more frequent commercial space missions. Officials said the recovery system simplifies rocket design while enhancing safety and flexibility through offshore operations.

Industry experts described the successful mission as a major breakthrough that strengthens China’s commercial space capabilities and advances sustainable, low-cost access to space.

Source: People’s Daily