China developing super heavy launch vehicle for manned moon mission

China has reportedly begun preliminary research on a super-heavy launch vehicle that the country intends to use in its manned missions to the moon.

The Long March-9 will be capable of carrying a maximum load of 130 tons and its first launch will take place around 2028.

According to China Daily, Li Tongyu, head of aerospace products at the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology said that the technological feasibility and requirements of the Long March-9 was currently being discussed, and that research on the solutions to some technical difficulties have started.

He said that its specifications would mostly be determined by a host of factors, including the government's space plan and the nation's overall industrial capability, as well as its engine's development.

He added that the Long March-9's diameter and height will be much larger than those of the Long March-5, and its thrust will also be much stronger.