China's new-generation manned carrier rocket Long March-10 has passed a second static fire test with flying colors. These tests play a crucial role in mitigating risks associated with the rocket's maiden flight, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). 

At 3 p.m. on Friday, seven engines used on the test product of the rocket's first stage were fired up simultaneously at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in the southern island province of Hainan. Following this procedure, multiple test processes were completed, with a total test duration of 320 seconds.

This final pre-launch ground test focused on evaluating the capabilities of the seven clustered engines of the rocket's first stage for low-thrust operating condition and secondary restart condition, obtaining complete test data. 

It has comprehensively verified the performance of the rocket's first-stage propulsion system and its recovery and reuse capabilities, said the CMSA, adding that the move marks a breakthrough in developing the initial prototype of the Long March-10 series of carrier rocket.  

The Long March-10 carrier rocket series is developed to serve China's manned lunar exploration missions, including two configurations – the Long March-10 rocket and Long March-10A rocket.

China has now entered the lunar landing phase of its manned lunar exploration program, paving the way for astronauts to land on the moon before 2030.

So far, the research and development of the country's manned lunar exploration program is going to plan. Since mid-June this year, related tests have been carried out in an intensive manner. The Mengzhou manned spacecraft, the Lanyue lunar lander, and the Long March-10 carrier rocket series have made successive progress, said the agency.

Related new supporting infrastructures are under construction at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site, with all work progressing steadily, the CMSA said.

Following-up tests and verification works of the Long March-10 carrier rocket series will be carried out successively, the agency added.

(Cover image: China tests the Long March-10 carrier rocket at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site, south China's Hainan Province, September 12, 2025. /VCG)