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Chinese space launch startup CAS Space says a problem with battery powering a third-stage servo led to the Dec. 27, 2024, failure of its Lijian-1 launcher.
“Telemetry data indicated a failure of voltage output from the thermal battery powering the third-stage servo, causing a loss of attitude control,” the company said via social media.
The third stage was lost about 3 sec. after ignition, triggering a self-destruct mechanism of the rocket, also known as Kinetica-1, the company said at the time.
CAS Space said its investigation has led it to conclude the battery likely was damaged during work at the factory. That meant it could not withstand the vibration of the flight.
“Data and video evidence have indicated no other failures,” the company said. It noted that it would improve quality control to try to avoid a recurrence of the issue.
The company has not yet said whether it is sticking with its plan for eight Lijian-1 launches in 2025.
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