CZ-9 current state

CZ-9 current state
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03/04/2023, 01:26:13

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As you know, in the latest revision of CZ-9, it has become a single core rocket, without boosters, and at least with reusable first stage.

It has LEO capacity of 150 ton, stand at 114 m. Compared with other heavy lift rockets in the world.

Currently it's still in development. The 9.5 m diameter fuel tank has taken shape.

The first stage engine YF-130 has completed its first full engine test in Nov 5, 2022. But unfortunately this engine is for the original CZ-9. The latest two CZ-9 revision supposedly said to use 26 unnamed Methalox engine, or 24 x 240 ton unnamed Kerolox engine at first stage. So the new engine requirement probably delay the original schedule of CZ-9. This is where CZ-10 comes in to meet the original lunar mission time table. Fortunately new engine development has vastly sped up, and the 500 ton YF-130 is the largest thrust engine planned, the rest are smaller thrust engine geared towards reliability and reusability.

220 ton LHLO YF-90 engine. The second stage engine for the original CZ-9.

A new 200 ton class unnamed MethaLox engine. I assume this is for the new CZ-9 revision.

A new test site is being built for testing upcoming 200 ton, 300 ton, 500 ton class engines. So I expect this test site will be responsible for testing all engines for CZ-9. Construction to be completed March this year.

CZ-9 started out as a rocket for lunar mission. But it will take from 2030 to achieve first flight. The new CZ-10 that may fly around 2026 is likely to take on the lunar mission instead, at least initially. However if CNSA ever want to conduct large space station construction, manned lunar base construction, or manned Mars mission, CZ-9 is indispensable.

Spacecraft to carry 4-7 astronauts to LEO space station or LTO lunar mission.

Lunar lander that carry the lunar rover and light payload for experiments.

A closer view of the lunar lander. Support two astronauts for short term stay on lunar surface. It appear to me the whole lander will take off on return trip.