China Launches Long March-8A Rocket with Internet Satellites from Hainan
China successfully launched a Long March-8A carrier rocket on Saturday from its southern island province of Hainan, marking another significant step in its expanding commercial space programme. The launch carried a new batch of low-orbit internet satellites into space, enhancing the country’s growing satellite communication network.
Successful Launch from Hainan
The rocket lifted off at 15:53 local time from the Hainan commercial spacecraft launch site. Moments later, it accurately placed its payload — the 14th group of low-orbit internet satellites — into the designated orbit. The operation demonstrated China’s steady progress in establishing a reliable satellite internet constellation.
Advancements in Rocket Design and Fuel Technology
Developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, the Long March-8A stands 50.5 metres tall and weighs 371 tonnes at takeoff. It can carry payloads of up to seven tonnes to a sun-synchronous orbit about 700 kilometres above the Earth. After completing its maiden flight in February this year, the rocket has entered a phase of frequent launch activity to support the nation’s ambitious space goals.
In this mission, the Long March-8A series adopted a new primary propellant — coal-based rocket kerosene — replacing the traditional petroleum-based version. This marks the first such shift for the series, underlining China’s commitment to greener and more cost-effective space technology. The coal-based fuel offers stable performance, easier storage and transportation, and reduced environmental impact. Officials described this transition as laying a “green power” foundation for future high-frequency launches.
Milestone in China’s Long March Programme
Saturday’s mission represented the fifth flight of the Long March-8A rocket and the 612th launch in the broader Long March series. The successful operation reflects China’s continuous efforts to modernise its launch systems while supporting its growing space economy.
with inputs from Reuters
