According to CASC, the Long March 12A's upper stage performed as intended, successfully reaching the mission's predetermined orbit. However, the rocket's first stage failed to complete a braking burn to slow down for landing at a prepared location near the edge of the Gobi Desert. "The first stage failed to be successfully recovered," said a CASC spokesperson, adding that the agency is reviewing the data to determine the cause of the failure.

The reusable launch vehicle program is a critical component of China's space industry, with the country aiming to reduce the cost and environmental impact of space launches. The program also has significant implications for the global space industry, as reusable launch vehicles could potentially disrupt the market and make space access more affordable for countries and companies.

China's reusable launch vehicle program is part of a broader effort to develop advanced space technologies, including reusable rockets and advanced propulsion systems. The country has made significant progress in recent years, with the successful launch of several reusable rockets and the development of advanced space infrastructure.

The Long March 12A rocket is a significant development in China's reusable launch vehicle program, with the country aiming to use the technology to launch a range of satellites and other spacecraft. The rocket's maiden flight was a critical test of the vehicle's capabilities, and the successful launch of the upper stage is a significant achievement for the CASC.

The failure of the first stage to be recovered is a setback for the program, but it is not unexpected. Reusable launch vehicles are complex systems that require significant testing and validation before they can be considered reliable. The CASC will likely conduct a thorough review of the data to determine the cause of the failure and make any necessary adjustments to the vehicle's design or operation.

China's reusable launch vehicle program is expected to continue to evolve in the coming years, with the country aiming to develop more advanced and capable reusable rockets. The program has significant implications for the global space industry, and it will be closely watched by space agencies and companies around the world.