Prospects of sea launches for Chinese cryogenic liquid-fueled medium-lift launch vehicles

This paper introduces the sea-launch technology of a cryogenic liquid-fueled medium-lift rocket. It first reviews the current state of sea launch technology, and then gives a brief introduction of China’s New Generation Medium-lift Launch Vehicle (NGMLV). The innovations in the NGMVL, such as responsive test and launch control, a H³ launch model, and unmanned operations, provide convenience for sea launches. Based on these innovations, this paper proposes a sea launch scheme, including the system configuration, test and launch processes, and an improved adaptive design for the rocket. Then, the launch platform is discussed in detail, which integrates the functions of sea transportation, assembly and test, as well as technical and launch areas. The layout and function divisions, fluid filling, gas supply and distribution systems, and lossless storage technology of LH2 are described in order. This breakthrough in sea launch technology will enable China to launch medium and large satellites and constellations ‘both on land and sea’, especially into low-inclination Low-Earth Orbits (LEOs), and it allows China to remain competitive in the fast-paced space industry.