China Achieves 10th Successful Sea Launch with Converted Floating Barge and Solid Rocket
China continues to make strides in its space exploration endeavors as it successfully completed its 10th sea launch using a specially converted floating barge and a solid rocket. The momentous event took place off the coast of Yangjiang, a city in South China’s Guangdong province, at 10:06 p.m. EST on February 2 (03:06 GMT and 11:06 a.m. Beijing time on February 3).
The Smart Dragon-3 solid rocket, standing at an impressive height of 102 feet (31 meters), soared into the sky after billowing out exhaust. As it ascended, insulation tiles fell from the payload fairing, which housed its payload of satellites. This launch marked another significant achievement for China’s space program.
The Smart Dragon-3, also known as Jielong-3, is a four-stage rocket developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT). CALT, a state-owned rocket manufacturer responsible for the renowned Long March family of rockets, operates the Smart Dragon-3 through its commercial spinoff named China Rocket. This commercial venture aims to enhance the reliability, cost-efficiency, and safety of the rocket to prepare for subsequent mass production.
During this successful sea launch, the Smart Dragon-3 carried nine satellites into orbit. Among them was the NExSat-1 remote sensing satellite, which was developed for Egypt. Additionally, the Xingshidai-18 satellite, an experimental networking satellite integrating communication, high-resolution remote sensing, and artificial intelligence, was onboard. ADA Space, a commercial firm, commissioned this satellite. Other satellites were developed by Beijing-based Smart Satellite and state-owned giants CASIC and the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
China Rocket is now looking to increase the frequency of Smart Dragon-3 launches following its triumphant third launch. Jin Xin, the chief commander of the Smart Dragon-3 rocket, expressed their commitment to improving reliability, cost-efficiency, and safety while minimizing contractual lead time. These efforts will pave the way for mass production and further advancements in China’s space exploration capabilities.
The Smart Dragon-3 has an impressive payload capacity, capable of sending 3,300 pounds (1,500 kilograms) to a 310-mile-high (500 kilometers) sun synchronous orbit. This capability positions China as a significant player in the global space industry.
This sea launch marks China’s 10th successful endeavor of its kind. It follows the remarkable debut launch of the Gravity-1 rocket in January, which utilized an all-solid propulsion system. China’s sea launch facilities are located at the Haiyang spaceport in the eastern province of Shandong. Operated by the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center, Haiyang is now focused on increasing its launch rate and further contributing to China’s space exploration ambitions.
China’s continuous achievements in space exploration highlight its commitment to pushing boundaries and expanding its capabilities. As the nation looks towards the future, it is poised to make even greater strides in unlocking the mysteries of the universe.