China Launches World’s 5th Carrier Rocket Maritime Recovery Ship

China has reached a significant milestone in its space exploration endeavors by launching the world’s 5th carrier rocket maritime recovery ship, named Xingji Guihang, or Interstellar Return. This achievement positions China as the second country, after the U.S, to possess such a vessel dedicated to reusable rocket maritime recovery technology.

The newly launched ship will play a crucial role in supporting the recovery work for the returning first stage of the SQX-3 reusable launch vehicle, developed by Beijing-based private rocket maker iSPACE. The company aims to conduct an orbital entrance and maritime recovery test flight around the end of 2025.

With a robust structure measuring approximately 100 meters in length and 42 meters in width, the Xingji Guihang features a recovery deck spanning 40 meters by 60 meters, providing ample support for the returning first-stage rocket. The ship boasts a displacement of 17,000 tons and is equipped with a DP2 dynamic positioning system, enabling it to capture rockets in Sea State 4 and navigate in Sea State 5, offering flexibility in recovery points.

Utilizing an intelligent unmanned operation mode, the ship enhances security and convenience during recovery tasks. Additionally, a dedicated storage compartment meets the requirements for maritime rocket component transport, ensuring efficiency in mission operations.

Sea State 4 and Sea State 5 are classifications from the World Meteorological Organization’s sea state scale, defining ocean conditions based on wind speed, wave height, and sea behavior. Sea State 4 is considered moderate, with wave heights ranging from 1.25 to 2.5 meters and wind speeds of 11 to 16 knots, while Sea State 5 is classified as rough, with wave heights of 2.5 to 4 meters and wind speeds of 17 to 21 knots.

Following the launch of the rocket recovery ship, it will undergo a series of assessments, including outfitting, testing of shipboard mechanical and electrical equipment, sea trials, and performance testing. The vessel is scheduled to arrive in South China’s Hainan Province in September for maritime exercises and further testing.

Looking ahead, the Xingji Guihang is poised to support a variety of medium and large-sized reusable rockets’ maritime recovery missions in the future, contributing to China’s advancements in space exploration and technology.