In a milestone for China's commercial space industry, Beijing-based Galactic Energy successfully launched its CERES-1 Y16 carrier rocket on Monday, marking the nation's first commercial rocket launch of 2025. The launch took place at 6:11 p.m. on January 20 at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, under the mission dubbed \"On Your Shoulders.\"
The CERES-1 Y16 rocket 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. This launch signifies a significant achievement for Galactic Energy, as the CERES-1 Y16 is the first rocket manufactured and assembled at the company's new-generation research and development and production base in Ziyang, Sichuan Province.
With this successful mission, the CERES-1 rocket series has completed 16 launches, sending a total of 63 satellites into their designated orbits. The continued success of the CERES-1 series underscores China's growing capabilities in the commercial space sector.
Advancements in Satellite Technology
The four Yunyao-1 satellites are equipped with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) occultation detection payloads. These advanced instruments enable the acquisition of crucial atmospheric data, including temperature, humidity, pressure, and ionospheric electron density. Such data is invaluable for meteorological observations and has broad applications in areas like weather forecasting and satellite internet constellation systems for industries such as mining.
The JTX A-05 satellite carries a hyperspectral camera payload designed to capture high-resolution remote sensing images. The data obtained from this satellite will be instrumental in a variety of fields, including environmental monitoring, industrial emissions detection, gas leakage identification, agricultural surveillance, mineral exploration, forest management, and urban planning.
Looking Ahead: CERES-2 and Reusable Rockets
Galactic Energy is not resting on its laurels. In Beijing, the company is advancing the development of 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.
The company is also making significant strides in reusable rocket technology. The Pallas-1, Galactic Energy's reusable rocket, has completed the development of most key technologies. It is anticipated to have its maiden flight in the first half of this year, showcasing the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability in space exploration.
These advancements reflect China's rapid progress in the commercial space industry and its ambition to become a leading player in space technology and exploration.
Reference(s):
CERES-1 Soars: China's first commercial rocket launch of 2025
cgtn.com
