# SpaceX and ULA make waves in the space industry Rocket test issues in China and Taiwan, along with new appointments, impact the space race. - **Source:** [Ars Technica - All content](https://brifing.si/source/b728770c-8dda-457a-8986-84879c9fc42c) - **Published:** 2026-08-21 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/e8ad1f8d-d066-48cb-8883-48c277228352 ## Issues with China's Long March rockets China's Long March 7A rocket broke apart less than 90 seconds after launch. Officials haven't disclosed the cause, but the use of YF-100 engines raised concerns. The reliability of other rockets using the same engines came into question. Six days later, a successful Long March 12 launch partially restored confidence in the engines. ## Preparations for the Chang'e 7 mission The Long March 5 rocket will carry China's Chang'e 7 lunar lander, one of the decade's most important space missions. The mission targets the Moon's south pole for exploration. The launch will also serve as a test for the YF-100 engines' performance under critical conditions. ## Taiwan's rocket test failure A rocket prototype developed by Taiwan's top defense manufacturer veered off course shortly after launch. The 'trajectory anomaly' triggered the rocket's self-destruct mechanism. The responsible agency reported no injuries or property damage, but the failure highlights technical challenges in Taiwan's space program. ## New leadership at ULA United Launch Alliance (ULA) is preparing for a new chapter with the appointment of a new CEO. This move is seen as a strategic step in ULA's competition with SpaceX. The new leader is expected to strengthen the company's position in rocket technologies and commercial space flights. ## The role of YF-100 engines in the space race China's YF-100 engines are considered the backbone of the country's space program. The recent failure sparked debates about their reliability. However, a successful launch shortly after demonstrated that the engines are still viable for critical missions, maintaining China's competitive edge. ## Challenges in Taiwan's space program The failed rocket test exposed the technical hurdles facing Taiwan's space ambitions. Investments in space technologies by the defense industry are also crucial for regional power dynamics. The setback has raised questions about the future of Taiwan's space program and its strategic goals. ## SpaceX's impact on lunar exploration SpaceX continues to lead the space industry with its ambitious Moon missions. The company's technological innovations and successful launches influence the strategies of other nations and companies. SpaceX's plans for the Moon's south pole are accelerating the international space race. ## The future of competition in the space sector Recent developments involving China, Taiwan, and U.S.-based companies highlight the intensifying competition in the space industry. Engine technologies, leadership changes, and test failures are shaping the sector's dynamics. The coming years will likely see more collaboration and rivalry as the space race heats up. ## Sources covering this story - https://arstechnica.com/space/2026/08/rocket-report-spacex-makes-a-mark-on-the-moon-ula-names-new-boss/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._