Slicing through the clear skies of northwest China, the CERES-1 Y16 carrier rocket roared into space from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center at 6:11 p.m. on January 20, marking China's first commercial rocket launch of 2025. Beijing-based rocket manufacturer Galactic Energy's successful launch not only adds to China's growing prowess in space exploration but also signals a new era in commercial aerospace endeavors.
The mission, aptly named \"On Your Shoulders,\" delivered five satellites into a 535-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit. Among them were the Yunyao-1 37~40 satellites and the JTX A-05 satellite, each poised to contribute significantly to meteorological observation, environmental monitoring, and technological advancements in various industries.
This launch marks the 16th flight of the CERES-1 rocket series, which has now successfully sent 63 satellites into their designated orbits. Notably, the CERES-1 Y16 is the first rocket to be manufactured and assembled at Galactic Energy's new research and development and production base in Ziyang, Sichuan Province—a testament to China's expanding capabilities in rocket production.
The quartet of Yunyao-1 satellites are equipped with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) occultation detection payloads. These instruments enable the satellites to gather critical data on atmospheric temperature, humidity, pressure, and ionospheric electron density. Such data is invaluable for meteorological observations and holds promise for applications in satellite internet constellation systems for sectors like mining.
The JTX A-05 satellite, meanwhile, carries a hyperspectral camera payload designed to capture detailed remote sensing images. The high-resolution data obtained can be applied across multiple fields, including environmental monitoring, industrial emissions detection, gas leakage identification, agricultural surveillance, mineral exploration, forest management, and urban planning.
Amidst this milestone, Galactic Energy is already looking ahead. In Beijing, the company is developing the CERES-2, a solid carrier rocket with a payload capacity of 1.6 tonnes. According to Meng Xianbo, the company's Chief Government Affairs Officer, the CERES-2 is expected to conduct four launches in 2025, with its maiden flight targeted for June.
Moreover, the company's reusable rocket, the Pallas-1, has reportedly completed the development of most key technologies. Galactic Energy's founder and CEO, Liu Baiqi, announced at Airshow China 2024 that the Pallas-1 is expected to make its maiden flight in the first half of this year. The advancements in reusable rocket technology signify a significant step toward more cost-effective and sustainable space exploration.
China's commercial space industry continues to accelerate, with private companies like Galactic Energy playing an increasingly vital role. The successful launch of CERES-1 Y16 not only underscores China's commitment to advancing space technology but also highlights the growing opportunities within the commercial aerospace sector.
Reference(s):
CERES-1 Soars: China's first commercial rocket launch of 2025
cgtn.com
