CAS Space Completes Key Engine Test for Kinetica 2 Rocket Ahead of Maiden Launch

Chinese commercial space company CAS Space has reached a major milestone in the development of its next-generation launch vehicle, Kinetica 2, by successfully conducting a comprehensive ground test of its powerful core booster engines. The test took place Wednesday at the company’s newly inaugurated liquid engine testing facility in suburban Guangzhou.

The trial, which involved multiple high-thrust engines intended for the rocket's first stage, demonstrated that all key components operated within expected parameters, delivering the required thrust consistently throughout the test duration. CAS Space engineers confirmed the results mark a significant step forward in validating the propulsion system’s readiness for flight.

This event also marked the first operational use of the new test facility, which is designed to support engines producing up to 400 metric tons of thrust and is equipped to handle reusable propulsion technologies. The facility represents a vital asset for CAS Space as it accelerates development on multiple launch vehicle platforms.

A subsidiary of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS Space is investing heavily in infrastructure to support the Kinetica 2 program. Construction is underway at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center for a dedicated technical operations center and launch pad, both of which are expected to be completed soon. These additions aim to streamline pre-launch operations and boost overall mission readiness.

The Kinetica 2 is a medium-lift, liquid-fueled launch vehicle standing 52 meters tall, with a 3.35-meter-diameter core flanked by two side boosters. It boasts a liftoff mass of 625 metric tons and a maximum thrust output of 766 tons. Designed to carry a range of payloads, the rocket can deliver up to 8 tons to sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) at 500 kilometers and up to 12 tons to low-Earth orbit (LEO).

The rocket’s debut launch is scheduled for September, with its inaugural mission carrying the Qingzhou cargo spacecraft, also known as the “Light Ship.” Under development by the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites in Shanghai, Qingzhou is intended to resupply China’s Tiangong space station as part of the country’s growing human spaceflight program, overseen by the China Manned Space Agency.

By Azhar