Beijing-based rocket maker Galactic Energy has successfully launched the CERES-1 Y16 carrier rocket, marking China's first commercial rocket launch of 2025. The rocket blasted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China at 6:11 p.m. on January 20, embarking on a mission dubbed \"On Your Shoulders.\"
The CERES-1 Y16 delivered five satellites into a 535-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit, including the Yunyao-1 37 to 40 satellites and the JTX A-05 satellite. This launch signifies the 16th successful mission of the CERES-1 rocket series, which has now sent a total of 63 satellites into predetermined orbits. Notably, the CERES-1 Y16 is the first rocket manufactured and assembled at the company's new research and development and production base in Ziyang, Sichuan Province.
The four Yunyao-1 satellites are equipped with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) occultation detection payloads. These advanced instruments enable the acquisition of critical atmospheric data, including temperature, humidity, pressure, and ionospheric electron density. The satellites hold significant potential for applications in meteorological observation and the verification of satellite internet constellation systems for industries such as mining.
The JTX A-05 satellite, featuring a hyperspectral camera payload, is designed to capture high-resolution remote sensing images. Its capabilities extend to various fields, including environmental monitoring, industrial emissions detection, gas leakage identification, agricultural surveillance, mineral exploration, forest management, and urban planning.
Meanwhile in Beijing, Galactic Energy is progressing with 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's reusable rocket, the Pallas-1, has completed the development of most key technologies and is anticipated to have its maiden flight in the first half of this year. This information was confirmed by the founder and CEO, Liu Baiqi, during Airshow China 2024.
(Contributions to this story were made by CGTN's Zhao Chenchen and Zhang Haoyudi.)
Reference(s):
CERES-1 Soars: China's first commercial rocket launch of 2025
cgtn.com
