China Launches Internet Technology Test Satellite from Sea Barge

China conducted a recent satellite launch experiment, deploying the Jielong-3 (Smart Dragon-3) solid rocket from a mobile sea platform off the coast of Yangjiang, Guangdong province. The liftoff, declared a success approximately two hours later, marked advancements in solid launch capabilities and extended-range sea launches. The satellite, aimed at testing internet technology, entered an orbit tracked by the U.S. Space Force. While specific payload details remain undisclosed, this launch aligns with China series of missions focusing on satellite internet technology testing.

This event signifies China commitment to developing a national satellite internet megaconstellation called Guowang, envisioning a deployment of 13,000 satellites into low Earth orbit. The Jielong-3, a four-stage rocket developed by China Rocket Co. Ltd., exhibited similarities with the ZK-1A rocket in terms of lift capacity, dimensions, and mass at liftoff. The success of the Jielong-3 second launch, a year after its inaugural sea platform liftoff, marks its operational readiness. China Rocket aims to increase production, with plans for an annual output of 20 rockets following the completion of the second phase of its assembly plant.

The launch also validated longer-range sea platform operations, as the mobile sea platform departed from facilities near Haiyang in Shandong province and executed the launch in the South China Sea. The Haiyang spaceport offers China additional flexibility and redundancy in space access, complementing the country primary spaceports. Furthermore, China is constructing commercial launch pads near the Wenchang space port, supporting both solid and liquid-propellant launch vehicles, with the first flights expected in the coming year.

This recent launch marked China 56th orbital launch in 2023, contributing to the nation space capabilities. While China has fallen short of its declared plan to conduct over 60 launches in the year, it has maintained a successful launch record. Notably, 2023 has proven to be a pivotal year for commercial entities, accounting for 15 orbital launches, including the successful introduction of liquid propellant launches.