China strengthens its space program with the Smart Dragon-3(Jielong-3) rocket on September 24, 2024. This launch took place from waters near the city of Haiyang in Shandong province at 10:31 a.m. local time, and succeeded in establishing eight satellites in orbit, including the Tianyi-41 satellite.
The technological capabilities of the Smart Dragon-3 rocket
The Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center was in charge of managing this operation, demonstrating its advances in space mission control and logistics. The use of offshore launch strategy is increasingly important to increase and diversify China’ s space capabilities.
The Smart Dragon-3, also known as Jielong-3, is a three-stage carrier rocket designed specifically for commercial satellite launches. With a capacity to carry up to 1,500 kg to a 500 km altitude heliosynchronous orbit(SSO), this rocket is part of the series of solid rocket launchers developed by China Rocket, a subsidiary of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation(CASC).
The Smart Dragon-3’s versatility and capability allows for greater flexibility in terms of launch dates and trajectories, while reducing the burden on China’s ground centers. This approach minimizes the risks associated with dropping components in populated areas in the region.
China’s space program continues to advance
The Jielong-3 launch was successful in terms of technology, and underscores China’s growing importance in the global commercial launch market. The deployed satellites, including Tianyi-41, will contribute to a variety of applications, from earth observation to telecommunications and scientific research.
The use of deep-sea launches also reinforces China’s ability to conduct missions without relying exclusively on its land bases, opening up new possibilities for its space program and strengthening its presence in the commercial space race.
Smart Dragon-3 rocket launches eight satellites from the sea. Source: CGTN Europe
This launch is part of China’s strategy to further expand its space capabilities. In addition to its focus on manned missions and lunar lunar explorationthe country is investing in advanced technologies to facilitate satellite deployment and improve its space infrastructure. The ability to conduct deep-sea launches, such as the Haiyang launch, is an example of how China’s space program continues to diversify and modernize.
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Source and photo: CGTN
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