Global Rocket Race: Japan, China, and SpaceX Lead Space Innovations Amid Rising Competition
July 11, 2025
Japan's Interstellar Technologies has raised approximately 8.9 billion yen, or about $61.8 million, to advance its Zero rocket development, with plans for a debut flight in 2027 and ambitions to expand into satellite communications similar to SpaceX.
Chinese company Orienspace is nearing the debut of its Gravity-2 rocket, expected in late 2025 after successful engine testing, positioning itself in the medium-lift market.
The Rocket Report highlights key industry developments, including SpaceX's plans to produce its own propellant and ongoing advancements in rocket technology worldwide.
The European Space Agency has selected five startups for potential funding of up to 169 million euros to develop alternatives to Arianespace, with Isar Aerospace being the most well-funded.
Senator Dick Durbin criticized Texas's efforts to relocate the space shuttle Discovery from the Smithsonian, citing financial concerns.
China is progressing on its Long March 10 rocket, which aims to land astronauts on the Moon by 2030, with its launch pad nearing completion.
Amid a decline in launch activity, Russia's Progress supply ship successfully delivered cargo to the ISS, maintaining its space operations.
Cameron County, Texas, approved SpaceX's construction of an air separator facility to enhance propellant supply efficiency for Starship launches.
United Launch Alliance is stacking its third Vulcan rocket, a major step toward its first operational flight with military payloads.
On July 15, 2025, NASA and Russia commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Apollo-Soyuz mission, celebrating a historic collaboration in human spaceflight despite current geopolitical tensions.
In Dubai, LEAP 71 and Aspire Space are partnering to develop a reusable rocket using AI technology, with a projected cost exceeding $1 billion.
South Korean company Innospace is advancing toward launching its Hanbit-Nano rocket, having successfully tested its second stage engine and targeting a launch by the end of 2025.
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Ars Technica • Jul 11, 2025
Rocket Report: SpaceX to make its own propellant; China’s largest launch pad