Orienspace’s Gravity 1 Achieves Successful Rocket Launch at Sea, Rivaling SpaceX

Insider Brief:

• Chinese space startup, Orienspace has successfully launched its Gravity 1 rocket at sea.
• This achievement establishes Gravity 1 as the world’s largest solid launch vehicle and China’s most extensive commercial space launch system.
• While SpaceX and other U.S. companies have focused on landing reusable rocket parts at sea, Orienspace’s successful sea launch demonstrates a notable deviation from the industry norm.
• Image credit: The Times of India

Chinese space startup Orienspace has celebrated a “complete success” with its Gravity 1 commercial launch system, marking a significant milestone in sea-launched heavy rockets.

The company announced on WeChat that the three-stage, 100-foot tall spacecraft had successfully placed three satellites into low-Earth orbit. This achievement establishes Gravity 1 as the world’s largest solid launch vehicle and China’s most extensive commercial space launch system.

Orienspace’s co-founder, Yao Song, highlighted the advantages of sea launches at a conference in April, citing reduced debris-related damage risk and lower costs. While SpaceX and other U.S. companies have focused on landing reusable rocket parts at sea, Orienspace’s successful sea launch demonstrates a notable deviation from the industry norm.

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