Long March 5 | Yaogan 41
Launch Successful
L - -- : -- : -- : --
Launch Window
Dec. 15, 2023, 1:32 p.m. - Dec. 15, 2023, 2:26 p.m.
Dec. 15, 2023, 1:32 p.m. - Dec. 15, 2023, 2:26 p.m.
Chinese reconnaissance satellite explicitly named in official news as a "high orbit optical remote sensing satellite". Satellite was found in standard geostationary transfer orbit after launch; other details TBD.
Launch success.
Liftoff confirmed.
Refined launch window per new NOTAMs.
Added launch per NOTAMs; Payload identity extremely uncertain.
Long March 5 is a Chinese heavy lift launch system developed by China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT). CZ-5 is the first Chinese vehicle designed from the ground up to focus on non-hypergolic liquid rocket propellants. Currently, two CZ-5 vehicle configurations are planned, with maximum payload capacities of ~25,000 kilograms (55,000 lb) to LEO and ~14,000 kilograms (31,000 lb) to GTO. The Long March 5 roughly matches the capabilities of American EELV heavy-class vehicles such as the Delta IV Heavy.
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 WIKI
China sent the classified Yaogan-41 satellite towards geostationary orbit Friday using the country’s largest rocket.
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