Xichang, 23 August 2022 (TDI): China successfully launched a new Chuangxin-16 satellite from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in South West China’s Sichuan Province, on Tuesday.
The Chuangxin-16 satellite was created by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). A Kuaizhou-1A carrier rocket was used to launch the satellite. The satellite will primarily be utilized for research purpose and the evaluation of new technologies.
#China launched the #Chuangxin16 #satellite into space via a Kuaizhou1A carrier #rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in SW China’s Sichuan Province. The satellite will mainly be used for scientific #experiments &verification of new #technologies. pic.twitter.com/ra6TZ06Xwi
— Ambassador Deng Xijun (@China2ASEAN) August 23, 2022
It was the 43rd satellite launched for the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites mission by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).
Previously, the Academy successfully launched Eighty-four satellites for several missions, including communications, sensing, research, micro-nano, and other areas.
A tiny solid carrier rocket called the Kuaizhou-1A has a maximum diameter of 1.4 meters, a take-off mass of roughly 30 tonnes, and a length of about 20 meters.
Moreover, a Sun-synchronous circular orbit has a carrying capacity of 200 kg per 700 km, whereas a low earth orbit has a carrying capacity of 300 kg. It has a short preparation duration, high orbit entry accuracy, high flight dependability, fewer support requirements, and a low launch price.
This is the second launch mission for this particular rocket type this year and the 16th flight of the Kuaizhou-1A carrier rocket.
China’s space capabilities
Over the past ten years, China has made major space capabilities advancements. China is now undertaking focused efforts to increase them further.
In 2021, China carried out 55 successful launch attempts, which is the current record. However, the country wants to surpass its previous record. In 2022, it aims to have completed more than 60 space launches.
On April 26, 10 rockets from the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) were sent into orbit. These rockets carry a variety of satellites, including the communication satellite Zhongxing-6D and the environmental monitoring probe Gaofen-3 03.
Moreover, a Tianxing-1 test satellite was launched on June 22 by Kuaizhou-1A from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. Tianxing-1 is primarily designed for experiments and the identification of the space environment.
