China's private rocket manufacturer LandSpace successfully launched its modified ZQ-2E Y2 rocket on Saturday, deploying six satellites into orbit from the Dongfeng commercial space innovation pilot zone near the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center at 12:12 pm (Beijing Time). The ZQ-2E Y2 is an enhanced version of the Zhuque-2 (ZQ-2) model, named after the Vermilion Bird of ancient Chinese mythology, a symbol of fire and the southerly direction.
The upgraded ZQ-2E model features a dual-cryogenic liquid propellant system powered by liquid oxygen and methane, the latter being the primary component of natural gas. This system, combined with a high-thrust engine, enables the rocket to deliver up to 4 tonnes to a 500-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit.
Saturday's mission marks the fifth launch of the ZQ-2 series, following the successful deployment of two satellites in November 2024 using the modified ZQ-2 Y1 variant. The latest model also benefits from enhanced engine thrust and the use of composite materials in its fairing, which reduces weight and improves efficiency and reliability.
