China's Long March 10 Rocket: A Step Towards Manned Lunar Exploration

China's space ambitions are advancing with the recent successful static fire tests of the Long March 10 carrier rocket, a next-generation heavy-lift launch vehicle designed for manned lunar missions. The second ignition test occurred on September 13, 2025, at the Wenchang Space Launch Center in Hainan province, where seven engines were ignited for approximately 320 seconds. This test aimed to evaluate the engines' performance in low-thrust conditions and during re-ignition processes, as reported by the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). The Long March 10 is expected to be ready for its maiden flight by 2027 and is integral to China's goal of landing astronauts on the Moon by 2030.

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The Long March 10 rocket stands at 92.5 meters tall and has a liftoff weight of 2,189 metric tons, capable of delivering payloads of at least 27 tons to an Earth-Moon transfer trajectory. It features a three-stage design with two boosters, while a variant, the Long March 10A, will be a two-stage reusable rocket aimed at transporting astronauts and cargo to the Tiangong space station. The first stage of both configurations is designed to be reusable, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs.

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China's advancements in space technology are part of a broader strategy to establish a significant presence in space, which is increasingly viewed as the "strategic high ground" of the 21st century. The integrated approach of China's space program includes the development of reusable rockets, orbital refueling capabilities, and plans for a permanent lunar base by 2035. This infrastructure aims to support not only scientific exploration but also military and commercial objectives, potentially reshaping global power dynamics.

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The United States has expressed growing concerns regarding China's space ambitions, linking them to military objectives. NASA recently implemented restrictions barring Chinese nationals with U.S. visas from accessing its facilities, citing cybersecurity risks. U.S. defense officials have warned that China's lunar program is closely tied to its military strategy, emphasizing the need for the U.S. to maintain its leadership in space exploration.

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Pang Zhihao, a senior space expert, highlighted the significance of the recent static fire test, calling it a milestone in China's lunar manned rocket development. He noted that the successful tests validate over 50 critical technologies necessary for the lunar landing mission. The CMSA has indicated that the Long March 10 series is entering a "sprint phase" towards achieving the first manned lunar landing by 2030, with ongoing test activities for the Mengzhou manned spacecraft and Lanyue lunar lander.

Global TimesChina tests moon-mission rocket

• “This test's success has also bolstered confidence in meeting the 2030 target while providing essential technical and temporal assurances.” — Pang Zhihao, Senior Space Expert

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• “from the perspective of safeguarding Earth’s security and ensuring the continuity of human civilization, building asteroid defense capabilities is a shared mission for all humanity.” — Wu Weiren, Chief Designer of China’s Lunar Program

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China's Long March 10 rocket represents a significant leap in its quest for lunar exploration and broader space capabilities. As the nation progresses towards its ambitious goals, the implications for international space dynamics and security will continue to evolve, prompting responses from global powers, particularly the United States. The successful tests and strategic planning underscore China's commitment to becoming a leading force in space exploration and utilization.

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