5 prototype satellites for Low Earth Orbit communications satellite constellation testing, in 3 different orbits.
The Long March 2D, also known as the Chang Zheng 2D, CZ-2D and LM-2D, is a Chinese orbital carrier rocket. It is a 2-stage carrier rocket mainly used for launching LEO and SSO satellites. The YZ-3 variant includes a YZ-3 upper stage able to push satellites into higher orbits.
The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) is the main contractor for the Chinese space program. It is state-owned and has a number of subordinate entities which design, develop and manufacture a range of spacecraft, launch vehicles, strategic and tactical missile systems, and ground equipment. It was officially established in July 1999 as part of a Chinese government reform drive, having previously been one part of the former China Aerospace Corporation. Various incarnations of the program date back to 1956.
INFO WIKIHELSINKI — China launched a set of satellites likely intended to test inter-satellite laser links early Thursday as the country moves ahead with major constellation projects. A Long March 2D […] The post China launches “laser diamond cons…
This week, Japanese commercial company Space One will make a second attempt to launch its… The post Launch Roundup: Kairos set for second launch attempt, Falcon 9 to launch 03b and GPS missions appeared first on NASASpaceFlight.com.
This week’s manifest features up to four Falcon 9 launches, including the highly anticipated Polaris Dawn crewed mission, a mission carrying AST SpaceMobile’s first five cellphone-compatible broadband satellites, and the delayed launch of …