China recovers rocket stage on land for first time, after earlier recovery at sea

Beijing (AP) — China has successfully recovered the first stage of a rocket on land for the first time, state media reported on Wednesday, as the country aims to boost its space program. This marks China's first successful recovery on land, although it is the second time a rocket stage has been recovered by the nation, following a successful sea platform recovery in July.

The reusable rocket, Zhuque-3, was launched on Wednesday morning, and the first stage was recovered after landing. This achievement also marks China's first use of deployable landing legs, deeming the result a major breakthrough in the country's reusable rocket technology. The recovery was conducted using a net-capture system.