China Launches New Communication Technology Test Satellite

Beijing, 3 Dec (ONA)--- China successfully launched a new experimental communication satellite today from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province.

The satellite, sent into orbit at 1:56 PM (Beijing Time) aboard a Long March 3B carrier rocket, will support satellite communication, radio and television broadcasting, data transmission, and conduct related technology tests.

This mission marks the 549th flight of the Long March rocket series.

Moreover, with this launch, the Long March 3B carrier rocket has accomplished a total of 100 space launches, a new record for the country's single-type rocket, according to the rocket's developer, China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT) under the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.

The Long March 3B carrier rocket took 28 years from its first flight in 1996 to the completion of 100 space launches.

It has served multiple major space projects of China, such as the BeiDou Satellite Navigation System, the Chang'e lunar program and Fengyun meteorological satellites, according to the CALT.

The Long March 3B carrier rocket is a type of highly adaptable launch vehicle and its carrying capacity can cover the mass of most satellites in the world, This makes it suitable for international commercial launches as well as major national space missions, according to its developer.

---Ends/Thuraiya/AH