China’s ambitions in space exploration have taken a controversial turn with the unveiling of its new Long March 9 rocket design. This ultra-heavy launch vehicle, slated to carry the first Chinese astronauts to the Moon in the 2030s, bears a striking resemblance to SpaceX’s revolutionary Starship.
The similarities are undeniable. Both rockets share a two-stage, fully reusable configuration, a design hallmark of Starship. The Long March 9 also incorporates aerodynamic flaps for precise landing, another feature directly borrowed from SpaceX’s innovative approach. This isn’t the first time China has faced accusations of design inspiration, or even copying, from SpaceX. Just last week, a Chinese space launch company called Cosmoleap released a promotional video that heavily mimicked SpaceX’s Mechazilla tower and its distinctive ‘chopstick’ arms. Additionally, another Chinese startup, Space Pioneer, announced plans for a rocket design uncannily similar to SpaceX’s Falcon 9.
These recurring instances of design parallelism raise significant questions about China’s space program. While some might argue that innovation often draws inspiration from existing technologies, the frequency and directness of these similarities suggest a more deliberate approach. China’s rapid progress in space exploration is undeniable, but these design controversies cast a shadow on their technological achievements. It remains to be seen whether these apparent borrowings will ultimately hinder their ambitions or provide a stepping stone for their future successes. The world watches with bated breath as this unfolding saga plays out, impacting the global space race and its future trajectory.
