Simulation Test Stand for China's lunar mission passes key milestone

A newly-built high-altitude simulation test stand in Northwest China's Shaanxi province has successfully completed its test run, according to a report from China Space News on Wednesday. The test stand, designed to simulate the operating conditions for the main deceleration engine of China's manned lunar landing spacecraft, is seen as a significant achievement in the country's ongoing lunar exploration efforts.

"The test run assessed the compatibility of the engine with the stand which utilizes advanced steam active ejector technology, according to the Academy of Aerospace Propulsion Technology, the system's developer."

Equipped with the largest steam ejector pump set in the country, the simulation stand can recreate high-vacuum conditions essential for testing the engine's performance. The test run simulated the engine's full operation, which lasts for about 1,000 seconds.

In 2023, China began its manned lunar exploration program, with the goal of achieving a manned lunar landing by 2030. As part of this mission, China is developing several critical spacecraft and vehicles, including the Long March-10 rocket, the Mengzhou manned spacecraft, and the Lanyue lunar lander, according to the China Manned Space Agency.

The successful test of the propulsion system for the Long March-10 carrier rocket's first stage was completed in June 2024, marking another step toward China's ambitious lunar goals.

Based on a Xinhua News Agency article