BEIJING – China is developing a smart rocket that can rectify mechanicalfailures during flight and plot a new flight path.

The rocket, which is being developed by a project team with the ChinaAcademy of Launch Vehicle Technology, will have the ability to perceive,judge, plan and execute flight corrections by itself.

It will be equipped with an advanced reusable power system that can beswitched on and off repeatedly.

Based on its flight mission, capabilities and external environment, therocket can automatically devise the best flight control plan and completeits own space launch.

The ultimate goal for rocket launches is to enter the targeted orbit.

In case of non-fatal malfunctions, those with non-explosive ornon-structural damage, the smart rocket can respond and make adjustments byitself, including entering emergency rescue orbit and returning to base, tominimize losses.

“If there was an engine malfunction, an ordinary rocket may fail tocomplete its mission and risk of falling or collision,” said Gao Lei, chiefdesigner of the project team.The smart rocket, however, could quickly evaluate the situation and itscapabilities, and make a new flight plan.

For example, if it loses power, the rocket would maximize its capabilitiesto set a new target, such as entering a lower orbit, and gradually reachingthe original target after orbital transfer by satellites and otherpayloads, to complete the mission, Gao said.

Shang Teng, a member of the project team, said that the smart rocket couldalso reduce launch cost, and all carrier rockets in active service would beupgraded to smart rockets in the future.