In a significant milestone for China's burgeoning commercial space industry, Beijing-based rocket manufacturer Galactic Energy successfully launched its CERES-1 Y16 carrier rocket on January 20, 2025. The launch, which took place at 6:11 p.m. from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, marks the nation's first commercial rocket launch of the year.
The mission, aptly named \"On Your Shoulders,\" delivered five satellites into a 535-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit. Among these were the Yunyao-1 satellites numbered 37 to 40, and the JTX A-05 satellite, each equipped with advanced technology intended to enhance data acquisition and remote sensing capabilities.
This launch signifies the 16th successful mission for the CERES-1 rocket series, which has now sent a total of 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, showcasing the company's expanding capabilities.
The four Yunyao-1 satellites are equipped with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) occultation detection payloads. These instruments are designed to collect critical atmospheric data, including temperature, humidity, pressure, and ionospheric electron density. Such data have broad applications in meteorological observations and can support satellite internet constellation systems for industries like mining.
The JTX A-05 satellite, carrying a hyperspectral camera payload, aims to enhance remote sensing imagery. Its capabilities are expected to be utilized across various sectors, including environmental monitoring, industrial emissions detection, gas leakage identification, agricultural surveillance, mineral exploration, forest management, and urban planning.
Galactic Energy is not resting on its laurels. 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 slated for four launches in 2025, with its maiden flight targeted for June.
Furthermore, the company's reusable rocket, the Pallas-1, has reportedly completed the development of most key technologies. As stated by founder and CEO Liu Baiqi during Airshow China 2024, the Pallas-1 is expected to have its inaugural flight in the first half of this year. This advancement positions Galactic Energy at the forefront of reusable rocket technology in China.
The successful launch of the CERES-1 Y16 and the forthcoming projects underscore China's rapid progress in commercial space exploration. As the nation continues to invest in innovative aerospace technologies, it solidifies its role as a key player in the global space industry.
Reference(s):
CERES-1 Soars: China's first commercial rocket launch of 2025
cgtn.com
