Home / Technology / Space Epoch Secures Funding for Orbital Rocket Launch
Space Epoch Secures Funding for Orbital Rocket Launch
17 Feb
Summary
- Space Epoch announced Series B funding for rocket development.
- The company aims for a first orbital launch and recovery this year.
- Yuanxingzhe-1 rocket targets reusability and lower launch costs.
Chinese launch startup Space Epoch has secured Series B funding, enabling large-scale development and aiming for a first orbital launch and recovery by the end of 2026. The company is developing the Yuanxingzhe-1 (YXZ-1) rocket, a reusable methane-liquid oxygen vehicle. Three YXZ-1 rockets are currently in production and will undergo ground testing in the second half of 2026.
The funding will also support Space Epoch's integrated industrial footprint across Beijing, Shandong, and Hangzhou. Beijing serves as the R&D hub, Shandong hosts test and launch facilities, and Hangzhou manages manufacturing, recovery, and inspection. The YXZ-1 rocket boasts a payload capacity of 13,800 kg to a 200 km orbit and claims a cost of no more than 20,000 yuan per kilogram, with a design for 20 reuses.
Space Epoch, founded in 2022, drew core personnel from the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology. The company previously conducted vertical takeoff and splashdown tests in May 2025 and reuse tests two months later. Space Epoch has also formed strategic partnerships for satellite constellations and explored rocket-based express delivery.
