Space Epoch completes Yuanxingzhe-1 engine gimbal hot-fire tests

(SpaceEnergy) Chinese rocket developer Space Epoch has completed integrated engine and thrust-vector-control hot-fire tests for both stages of its Yuanxingzhe-1 reusable launcher, advancing propulsion hardware towards final assembly.

The Beijing-based company disclosed on 21 October that the first- and second-stage engines had successfully completed tests combining live firing with commanded movements of their servo-driven gimbal mechanisms.

Space Epoch said the engines operated normally, the actuators completed their prescribed movements and measured parameters met design requirements.

The campaign tested the interaction between propulsion and thrust-vector-control systems under actual ignition, vibration and thermal conditions.

Before hot firing, both stages underwent dry and wet gimbal tests, including checks under ambient and cryogenic conditions.

The subsequent firing programme covered circular movements, frequency sweeps, step changes and other representative control sequences.

First-stage testing also demonstrated continuous thrust modulation, which Space Epoch intends to use during powered descent and recovery.

The company reported stable throttling performance and accurate thrust control throughout the relevant tests.

The tested assemblies have been transferred for final integration.

Yuanxingzhe-1 is a stainless-steel, liquid oxygen–methane launch vehicle being developed for orbital missions with first-stage recovery at sea.

The latest tests concern the orbital launcher's propulsion and control assemblies. They are distinct from the July 2025 hot-fire campaign involving engine and control hardware recovered from an earlier experimental vehicle.

Space Epoch did not disclose the individual firing dates, cumulative firing duration or engine thrust measurements.

No completed orbital launch or recovery of the operational vehicle was announced.