Space Epoch and Taobao Collaborate on Reusable Rocket Delivery

Space Epoch, a Chinese rocket manufacturer, has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with Alibaba’s online shopping platform, Taobao, to revolutionize express deliveries globally. 

The project, unveiled on Sunday, is still in its nascent stages but holds the potential to develop reusable rockets capable of delivering goods worldwide within an hour.

Ambitious Goals:

According to a statement released by Space Epoch on its official WeChat social media account, the project targets the creation of a reusable rocket capable of transporting payloads of up to ten tons within a 120 cubic meter container. 

This ambitious endeavor underscores Space Epoch’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of space technology to redefine the future of logistics.

Trial Stages and Technical Details:

While specifics about the project remain limited, Space Epoch revealed that it plans to utilize its ‘Yuanxing-1’ rocket for the initiative. 

The Yuanxing-1 rocket underwent successful ignition and offshore recovery tests last year, laying the groundwork for its potential application in commercial delivery operations.

Future Tests and Challenges:

Space Epoch anticipates conducting rocket delivery tests shortly, though it acknowledges the formidable challenges ahead. 

Achieving the project’s objectives will require sustained effort and innovation, with Space Epoch emphasizing the long-term nature of its goals.

Strategic Imperatives:

The initiative aligns with President Xi Jinping’s vision of bolstering strategic industries, particularly the commercial space sector.

This sector is important in developing satellite constellations for communication, remote sensing, and navigation, reflecting China’s ambitions in space technology and exploration.

Record Growth and Financing:

The announcement comes on the heels of a remarkable year for the Chinese commercial space industry, marked by 17 launches, albeit with one failure. 

China conducted 67 orbital launches in the same period, showcasing its increasing prominence in the global space. 

Space Epoch’s momentum was boosted by a successful third financing round last November, when it secured 200 million yuan ($27.70 million) in funding to advance its innovative projects.