China has successfully launched its new Long March-12 carrier rocket from the Hainan commercial space launch site, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s space program. The rocket lifted off on Saturday night, sending test satellites into orbit and showcasing China’s growing capabilities in commercial space exploration.
The Hainan launch site, which became operational in just 878 days, is China’s first commercial spaceport. The inaugural launch was a complex endeavor, involving a brand-new launch pad, rocket, operational procedures, and a fresh team. Despite these challenges, the mission was a success.
“This launch represents a new era for China’s space industry,” said a spokesperson from the launch team. “We have demonstrated our ability to rapidly develop and deploy advanced space technology.”
The launch utilized a remote firing control system, centralizing ground control equipment in the control building. Launch commands were issued from the site’s second control hall, streamlining the process and enhancing safety.
The second launch pad at the Hainan site is China’s first general-purpose medium-sized liquid launch pad. It can accommodate nearly 20 types of rockets with diameters ranging from 3.35 to 5 meters. The pad employs a “three-flat” rapid processing approach, which involves horizontal assembly, testing, and transportation. This method enables efficient launch operations, allowing the rocket transfer pad to be prepared for a subsequent launch in as little as three days and restored to its pre-launch state within seven days.
The Long March-12 carrier rocket is China’s first 4-meter-diameter liquid-fueled launch vehicle. Measuring approximately 62 meters in length and with a launch mass of about 430 tonnes, it is the most powerful two-stage single-core rocket in China. It boasts a payload capacity of at least 12 tonnes to low-Earth orbit and at least 6 tonnes to a 700-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit.
The rocket can be adapted to accommodate satellite fairings with diameters of 5.2 meters or 4.2 meters, supporting the launch of single or multiple satellites into various orbits based on mission requirements. This flexibility is expected to boost China’s commercial space industry by providing more options for satellite deployment.
The successful debut of the Long March-12 rocket from the Hainan launch site signals China’s commitment to advancing its space exploration capabilities and expanding its role in the global space industry.
Reference(s):
China's first commercial launch site debut with maiden flight of LM 12
cgtn.com
