China has launched a new experimental communications satellite into low-Earth orbit, marking the country’s latest step in advancing its space-based communications capabilities, China Daily reported.
The launch took place at 1:17 a.m. local time on Monday from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province, using a Long March 3B rocket.
That corresponds to 8:17 p.m. Sunday, Central European time.
Focus on High-Speed Communications
Chinese authorities revealed that the satellite will be used primarily for testing multi-band and high-speed communication technologies, but have not disclosed its name, technical details, or orbital parameters.
These kinds of experiments are key to developing next-generation satellite internet services, secure military communications, and potentially improving China’s global satellite navigation and surveillance infrastructure.
The mission was the 562nd launch of the Long March rocket series, which remains the backbone of China’s expanding space program.
This particular launch has been classified as a technology demonstration.
