China’s Kerosene Rocket Nebula-1 Crashes During a Test Flight

China’s private space company Deep Blue Aerospace reported a failed test attempt of its innovative Nebula-1 reusable rocket.

Deep Blue Aerospace has almost landed a reusable Nebula-1

On 22 September, Deep Blue Aerospace conducted a high-altitude vertical recovery test flight in the country’s northern region of Inner Mongolia. The recyclable and reusable first-stage rocket body had an abnormality during the final landing phase of the flight test, and the trial mission was not completely successful.

The spacecraft completed 10 of its 11 tasks, the company said in a statement. The rocket took off with three engines ignited as expected. After reaching the predetermined height, two of the engines on both sides were shut down, and the descent process began perfectly.

The spacecraft successfully locked the landing legs while approaching its launch pad. However, an abnormality occurred during the final landing phase, resulting in harsh landing and partial damage to the rocket. According to the officials, no one was hurt during the test mission.

Andrew Jones, Journalist tracking China’s space programme, posted on social media an amazing drone footage from Deep Blue Aerospace’s test flight:

The entire flight test lasted 179 seconds. Before shutdown, the error between the rocket body and the landing point was less than 0.5 metres.

About Nebula-1

The Nebula-1 is China’s first reusable kerosene-fuelled rocket, with a diameter of 3.35 metres and a first-stage height of about 21 metres. It is powered by the Thunder-R engine, which operates using a combination of kerosene and liquid oxygen. Developed by Deep Blue Aerospace, over 90% of the rocket’s main structure is produced using 3D printing technology with high-temperature alloys.

Aerospace experts suggest that using alternative fuels like kerosene, liquid oxygen, and methane could significantly reduce costs and make rocket launches more environmentally friendly and efficient.

Total Failure?

Despite this unsuccessful attempt, Deep Blue Aerospace will continue to work on the project. Company representatives view this test flight not as a total failure, but rather as a valuable experience that will advance reusable rocket technology and support the further development of China’s aerospace industry.