China’s commercial Tianlong-3 rocket fails on debut launch

Written by Andrew Jones Friday, 03 April 2026 08:55

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Full-scale mockup of Space Pioneer's Tianlong-3 rocket stands vertically on a newly completed launch pad at the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Test Zone, located in the desert landscape of Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. The launch pad is equipped with support towers, fueling infrastructure, and ground facilities visible under clear blue skies.

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The first launch of the Tianlong-3 rocket from Chinese commercial firm Space Pioneer failed Saturday after suffering an anomaly in its ascent phase.

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