Shanghai: China successfully launched a Gravity-1 Y3 rocket carrying nine satellites into their designated orbits after it was launched from an offshore launch pad east of Shanghai at 6:00 AM local time today. This set new records for both payload weight and orbital altitude in a single mission.
According to Thai News Agency, this mission, conducted by the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center, involved the launch of a new constellation of satellites under the Qianfan Internet Satellite Project and a test satellite for EUHT technology. It marked the fourth flight of the Gravity-1 rocket, showcasing the growing capabilities of China's commercial space endeavors.
Gravity-1 is a solid-fuel rocket developed by OrienSpace, a Chinese commercial space company, and possesses a maximum payload capacity of 6.5 tons. This marks the second deep-sea launch of a Gravity-1, following the first on July 22nd, when a Gravity-1 Y4 rocket launched from the same area and successfully placed nine satellites into orbit.
Experts say the success of this mission further confirms the reliability of the rocket and its ability to withstand high temperatures, high humidity, and high salt spray in the sea. This kind of resilience is crucial for offshore launches, as they present unique environmental challenges.
Furthermore, this mission set a world record for the first time in using solid-fuel rockets to launch stacked satellites, meeting the need for creating large satellite constellations. The satellites were stacked in layers, like blocks, to maximize space utilization within the rocket's nose cone and payload ratio. This innovative approach is a significant step forward in the efficiency and effectiveness of satellite deployment.