China successfully launched a new technology communications test satellite on board of a Long March-5 rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Center in the southern province of Hainan. The liftoff occurred at 20:30 Beijing time, and according to the state-run Xinhua news agency, the satellite entered its planned orbit a few minutes later.
Technological Validation According to the official statement, the satellite will be used for tests and validation of multiband and high-speed communications, a key area of the Chinese space program to expand civil and defense capabilities.
The launch also marks the 618th mission for the Long March rocket family, China's primary space transportation system.
