Beijing-based aerospace startup SEPOCH has successfully conducted the world’s first commercial rocket delivery test, transporting Taobao packages via reusable rocket technology. The landmark experiment on May 29 saw the company’s XZY-1 verification rocket carry over 20kg of e-commerce goods during a 125-second test flight reaching 2.5km altitude before executing a precise sea landing off Shandong province. This breakthrough demonstration opens new possibilities for ultra-fast global logistics, potentially reducing intercontinental delivery times from days to minutes.
The 26.8-meter stainless steel rocket, weighing 57 tonnes, represents a major leap in reusable launch vehicle technology. After spending 18 hours at sea, the recovered rocket showed no structural damage or system failures, with its 120-cubic-meter cargo bay preserving all test packages in perfect condition. SEPOCH founder Wei Yi confirmed the cargo compartment met all design specifications for fire resistance, moisture protection and shock absorption – critical requirements for commercial payload transport.
While current costs remain prohibitive for routine consumer deliveries, SEPOCH envisions initial applications in emergency response and remote area supply missions. The company plans to optimize its cargo configuration for diverse payloads including perishable goods, with an orbital-capable version scheduled for 2025 that could deliver 7-tonne payloads to 1,100km orbits. Aerospace analysts note this achievement positions China at the forefront of point-to-point space logistics, though widespread adoption will require further validation of reusability and cost-reduction technologies.
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