China launches communication technology satellite aboard Long March 3B
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Dec 04, 2024

China successfully launched an experimental satellite to advance communication technology from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province on Tuesday. The satellite, lifted into orbit by a Long March 3B carrier rocket at 1:56 pm Beijing Time, is now positioned in its planned trajectory.

The satellite is designed for applications in satellite communication, radio and television broadcasting, and data transmission, while also conducting technology demonstrations.

This mission represents the 549th flight of the Long March rocket series and marks a milestone for the Long March 3B rocket, which has now completed 100 successful launches. According to the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT), the rocket achieved this record over 28 years since its inaugural flight in 1996.

The Long March 3B has supported key Chinese space initiatives, including the BeiDou Satellite Navigation System, the Chang'e lunar exploration program, and Fengyun meteorological satellites. The rocket is praised for its adaptability and capacity to handle a wide range of payloads, making it suitable for both international commercial missions and domestic space programs, CALT noted.

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