Russian space corporation unveils planned “Amur” rocket—and it looks familiar

Here's a schematic of the proposed Amur rocket. [credit: GK Launch Services ]

On Wednesday Russia's state space corporation, Roscosmos, unveiled plans to develop a new "Amur" rocket.

The booster will be powered by new and as yet undeveloped rocket engines that burn methane. Just as significantly, for the first time, Russia is seeking to build a reusable first stage. And Roscosmos is targeting a low price of just $22 million for a launch on Amur, which is advertised as being capable of delivering 10.5 tons to low-Earth orbit.

"We would like our rocket to be reliable, like a Kalashnikov assault rifle," said Alexander Bloshenko, executive director of Roscosmos for Advanced Programs and Science.

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