On January 24, 2025, China successfully launched two significant missions, enhancing its satellite capabilities and communication technology. The first mission occurred at 1:15 pm Beijing Time, deploying the sixth satellite of the Spacesail Constellation. Each satellite reached its designated orbit, contributing to the growth of China's commercial low-orbit satellite network. This mission marked the 557th flight of the Long March rocket family.
The Long March 6 rocket, developed by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, utilizes liquid oxygen and kerosene as propellants, ensuring a non-toxic and environmentally friendly launch process. It can carry payloads of up to 6.5 tonnes to a 500-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit. The rocket is scheduled for an ambitious launch calendar in 2025 with over ten missions planned.
The Spacesail Constellation project is crucial for China's aim to establish a commercial satellite network, with development beginning on August 6, 2024.
In addition, a communication technology satellite was launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province at 11:32 pm Beijing Time via a Long March-3B rocket. This satellite will support various applications, including satellite communications, radio and television broadcasting, and data transmission, while also serving as a testing platform for related technologies. This launch marked the 558th mission of the Long March rocket series.