Chinese aerospace company CAS Space has successfully completed a test flight of its suborbital vehicle "Lihun-1 Y1," aimed at developing space tourism. This was reported by Xinhua.
During the flight, the capsule, which was returned to the Jiuquan launch site using a parachute system, reached a maximum altitude of 120 km. Engineers conducted tests on aerodynamic braking technologies and a super-precise landing system, confirming the reliability of the vehicle.
CAS Space describes its project as a cost-effective platform for commercial needs. According to the developers, the vehicle is capable of maintaining stable microgravity for over 300 seconds, opening opportunities not only for space tourism but also for conducting scientific experiments.
As part of the tests, equipment from the Institute of Mechanics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences was installed on board the vehicle, intended for laser additive manufacturing in microgravity conditions. These tests confirmed that the rocket is suitable for supporting orbital production.
In addition, samples of rose seeds were sent into space, which researchers intend to use to study genetic mutations with the aim of creating new varieties and forming a gene bank of "space roses."
Deputy Chief Designer Wang Yincheng noted that the company plans to expand the "Lihun" series of vehicles. At this stage, CAS Space is focused on developing life support and emergency rescue systems.
