Beijing-based rocket maker Galactic Energy has ushered in a new era for China’s commercial space industry with the successful launch of the CERES-1 Y16 carrier rocket. On January 20, at precisely 6:11 p.m., the rocket soared from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, marking the nation’s first commercial rocket launch of 2025 in a mission aptly named “On Your Shoulders.”
This landmark event saw the CERES-1 Y16 deliver five satellites into a 535-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit. Among these satellites were the Yunyao-1 37~40 series and the JTX A-05 satellite. The success of this mission adds to the impressive track record of the CERES-1 rocket series, which has completed 16 launches and placed 63 satellites into their designated orbits.
What makes this launch particularly noteworthy is that the CERES-1 Y16 is the first rocket to be manufactured and assembled at Galactic Energy’s new research and development facility in Ziyang, Sichuan Province. This state-of-the-art base represents a significant step forward in China’s capability to produce advanced space technologies domestically.
The four Yunyao-1 satellites aboard the rocket are equipped with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) occultation detection payloads. These sophisticated instruments allow for the collection of vital atmospheric data, including temperature, humidity, pressure, and ionospheric electron density. Such data are crucial for improving meteorological observations and have promising applications in industries like mining through the development of satellite internet constellations.
The JTX A-05 satellite carries a hyperspectral camera payload designed to capture detailed remote sensing images. This technology holds immense potential across various sectors, including environmental monitoring, detection of industrial emissions and gas leaks, agricultural surveillance, mineral exploration, forest management, and urban planning.
In addition to the CERES-1, Galactic Energy is making significant strides in rocket development. The company is working on the CERES-2, a solid carrier rocket with a payload capacity of 1.6 tonnes. According to Meng Xianbo, Galactic Energy’s Chief Government Affairs Officer, the CERES-2 is scheduled for its maiden flight in June 2025, with plans for four launches that year.
Furthermore, the company’s reusable rocket, the Pallas-1, has achieved considerable progress, having completed the development of most key technologies. As shared by founder and CEO Liu Baiqi at Airshow China 2024, the Pallas-1 is expected to embark on its maiden flight in the first half of this year. This advancement signals a significant move towards cost-effective and sustainable space exploration.
Galactic Energy’s achievements reflect China’s growing prominence in the global space industry and its commitment to advancing commercial space endeavors. The successful launch of the CERES-1 Y16 not only demonstrates technological prowess but also paves the way for future innovations in satellite technology and space exploration.
