Chinese Jielong-3 rocket successfully launches, delivering nine satellites into orbit. Geely Holding Group also launches 11 satellites to enhance autonomous vehicle navigation. CAS Space develops powerful Lijian-1 rocket capable of sending a 1,500 kg payload to a 500-km sun-synchronous orbit.
Test rocket blasts off in Gobi Desert in latest step towards launch of Zhuque-3, targeted for 2025 maiden flight, as Beijing-based start-up and US rivals SpaceX and Relativity Space race to develop methane-powered rocket technology.
SpaceX Starship finally flies and then explodes. NASA gets its hands on asteroid chunks but can't open the container. Catch up on the year in spaceflight.