China launches experimental satellites with upgraded ZQ-2 carrier rocket

China successfully launched the modified ZQ-2 Y-1 carrier rocket into space from a commercial space innovation zone in northwest China on November 27. 

The rocket lifted off at 10:00 a.m. Beijing time, delivering two experimental satellites into their designated orbits, Caliber.Az reports via Chinese media.

Moreover, the Long March-12 Y1 carrier rocket has been moved to the launch area at a commercial space site in Hainan Province, located in southern China. According to Hainan International Commercial Aerospace Launch Co., Ltd., the rocket is scheduled for lift-off shortly, at an appropriate time.

The Long March-12 represents a milestone in China's space programme, being the nation’s first single-core liquid-fuel launch vehicle with a diameter of 3.8 metres. Its two-stage configuration is powered by six liquid oxygen-kerosene engines.

The commercial launch site in Hainan began construction in July 2022 and has since become China’s first facility exclusively dedicated to commercial space missions.

By Aghakazim Guliyev