On January 18, 2026, InterstellOr in the Chinese mainland announced that the test module of its commercial crewed spacecraft CYZ1 successfully completed an integrated verification trial of its landing buffer system. All performance metrics met or exceeded design targets, marking a major milestone for the CYZ1 program. 🚀
The trial simulated the actual post-re-entry landing: a 5-tonne test capsule was hoisted to over three meters above the ground, then released to free-fall at the steady descent speed expected under its main parachute. At just the right moment, the landing buffer system kicked in, firing retro-thrusters to generate reverse thrust and working in perfect sync with the capsule’s energy-absorbing structure. The result? Smooth deceleration and cushioning within an impressively short stroke, protecting both structure and onboard equipment. ✨
After the drop, engineers inspected the capsule and found its structure intact and systems fully functional. InterstellOr highlighted the landing buffer system’s high feasibility and reliability, paving the way for the next phase of CYZ1 crewed spacecraft development.
Next steps include a deep dive into the test data to fine-tune system parameters and lay a solid foundation for upcoming flight trials. With this success, CYZ1 moves one step closer to carrying astronauts safely back to Earth, fueling excitement for the future of commercial crewed missions from the Chinese mainland. 🌟
Reference(s):
China's crewed spacecraft test capsule completes landing system check
cgtn.com
