Interstellar Glory SQX-3 carrier rocket first stage methane tank low temperature static test achieved complete success

On July 12, 2025, Interstellar Glory Aerospace Technology Group Co., Ltd. independently designed and produced SQX-3 single-stage liquid methane storage tank successfully completed low temperature static test. The tank has a diameter of 4.2 meters, a length of approximately 17 meters, and was manufactured using the new generation stir friction welding production line self-built by Interstellar Glory, for a new generation of reusable low temperature liquid methane tanks. The low temperature liquid nitrogen static test conducted in this test covered multiple load profiles under conditions such as ground operation, flight, recovery, and reuse. The test mainly assessed the tank's load capacity under internal pressure, axial force, and bending moment design loads, verifying the rationality of engineering algorithms and the accuracy of the design. Additionally, a tunnel pipe with a design diameter of 600mm was included in the tank, and the test also assessed the structural load capacity and sealing reliability of the tunnel pipe under low temperature external pressure conditions. During the test, the displacement and strain data collected matched the predicted results of the simulation, and the tank structure remained in normal condition, fully verifying the reliability and process stability of the tank structure. Follow-up tests will include a burst test on the tank product to obtain the ultimate load capacity of the structure, laying a solid foundation for the development and implementation of criteria for the repeated use and lifespan evaluation of the tank structure.