China's first offshore platform for testing reusable liquid-fueled rockets is set to begin operations at Shandong Province's Oriental Spaceport, marking a milestone in the country's 2026 commercial space ambitions. The facility, located at the nation's sole commercial offshore launch hub, will enter commissioning phases by February 5, with a landmark launch-and-recovery test scheduled around the Spring Festival in mid-February.
This initiative aligns with the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), which prioritizes establishing China as a global space power. Liquid-fueled rockets' reusability and higher payload capacity position them as critical tools for cost-effective satellite deployment—a strategic advantage as the Oriental Spaceport aims to expand its track record of 137 successfully launched satellites.
While previous 22 offshore missions used solid-fueled rockets for their mobility, industry experts note the shift to liquid propulsion reflects China's focus on sustainable space infrastructure. "Reusable rockets could reduce launch costs by up to 70%," explains a spaceport representative, highlighting their potential to accelerate low-Earth orbit satellite networks.
As global investors eye Asia's $50 billion commercial space sector, this development underscores China's bid to lead reusable rocket innovation. The Oriental Spaceport's progress will be closely monitored during its February test, which could redefine regional competition in space technology.
