Asia's largest and China's first vertical high-altitude simulation test bench for rocket engines completed its ignition test on Wednesday, marking the formal completion and operational readiness of the test facility, according to the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).

Developed by the 101st Institute of the Sixth Academy of CASC, this groundbreaking facility will pave the way for the advancement of next-generation engines for China's space program.

The test bed simulates high-altitude conditions for liquid engines, replicating a near-vacuum environment (below kilopascal level) for thousands of seconds. This breakthrough fills a critical gap, paving the way for advanced engine development for China's upcoming major space projects and future heavy-lift launch vehicles.