Full Breakdown
Zenk Space Advances with Zhihang-1 Rocket Static Fire Test
2/17/2026, 11:11:46 AM
Overview of the Static Fire Test
On February 11, 2026, Zenk Space, a Chinese launch startup officially known as Beijing Space Zhihang Technology Co., Ltd., conducted a successful static fire test of the first stage of its Zhihang-1 rocket. The test took place using the HOS-1 mobile sea platform off the coast of Shandong province. While the company did not disclose the exact duration of the test, it shared footage that showcased the event. This test signifies that the Zhihang-1 has completed all major ground tests in preparation for its inaugural flight.
Technical Specifications of Zhihang-1
The Zhihang-1, or ZH-1, is a three-stage launch vehicle measuring approximately 50 meters in length and 3.35 meters in diameter. It is powered by four YF-102 kerolox engines, developed by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), and is designed to carry payloads of up to 4,000 kilograms to a 500-kilometer-altitude sun-synchronous orbit (SSO). Zenk Space has received guidance and support from the State Administration for Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense (SASTIND) and other national defense technology management departments in Shandong Province.
Future Plans for Reusability
Zenk Space is also exploring partial engine recovery for the ZH-1 as part of its strategy to develop reusable launch systems. Although the first stage will not be recovered, the engine bay section is designed to separate after the second stage's separation. This section will utilize thermal protection for high-speed reentry, deploying parachutes to slow descent, and airbags for buoyancy upon splashdown. The engines can then be recovered, inspected, and refurbished for potential integration with a new first stage. This approach is reminiscent of the SMART recovery system studied by United Launch Alliance.
Broader Context of Chinese Launch Vehicles
The Zhihang-1 is among several new Chinese launch vehicles expected to debut in 2026. Other notable upcoming launches include the Long March 10A, Long March 10B, and Long March 12B, all of which are designed for first stage recovery. Additionally, commercial firms are preparing for their inaugural flights, including Galactic Energy's Pallas-1, Deep Blue Aerospace's Nebula-1, Orienspace's Gravity-2, CAS Space's Kinetica-2, Space Epoch's Yuan Xing Zhe-1, and Space Pioneer's Tianlong-3. Notably, Landspace's Zhuque-3 and CASC's Long March 12A are also expected to attempt new launches following previous orbital successes in December 2025.
Official Statements
Zenk Space stated, “The success of this test marks that the Zhihang-1 rocket has fully completed all major ground tests prior to its debut flight and will soon proceed to its first flight test mission.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Zenk Space has outlined its plans for the Zhihang-1 and future vehicles, specific timelines for subsequent tests and launches remain unclear. Additionally, the company has not provided detailed information on the exact capabilities of the ZH-2 and ZH-3 rockets, which are still in the planning stages.
What's Next
As Zenk Space prepares for the first flight of the Zhihang-1, the company is also advancing plans for the larger ZH-2 and ZH-3 rockets, which aim to enhance payload capacity and incorporate first stage recovery systems. The upcoming months will be critical for Zenk Space as it transitions from ground tests to actual launches.
