China marked another milestone in its space exploration program on Saturday with the successful launch of a Long March-2D carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. The rocket, which lifted off at 12:11 p.m. Beijing Time, placed the Gaojing-3 02 remote sensing satellite into its designated orbit, alongside the Tianyan-23 satellite.
This mission underscores China’s expanding capabilities in Earth observation and space technology. The Gaojing-3 02 satellite is designed for high-resolution remote sensing applications, supporting environmental monitoring, urban planning, and disaster management efforts. The Tianyan-23 satellite’s specific functions remain classified, though analysts suggest it may contribute to scientific research or communications infrastructure.
The launch marks the 564th flight of the Long March rocket series, reflecting China’s sustained investment in space exploration. Experts emphasize that such advancements bolster global Earth observation networks, offering data crucial for climate studies and cross-border environmental challenges.
