Beijing-based rocket maker Galactic Energy achieved a significant milestone on January 20, 2025, with the successful launch of its CERES-1 Y16 carrier rocket. The launch, which took place at 6:11 p.m. from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, marks the Chinese mainland's first commercial rocket launch of 2025.
The mission, aptly named \"On Your Shoulders,\" delivered five satellites into a 535-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit. The satellites include the Yunyao-1 37~40 and the JTX A-05, each equipped with advanced technology intended to enhance various industrial and environmental applications.
The four Yunyao-1 satellites are outfitted with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) occultation detection payloads. These instruments enable the acquisition of crucial atmospheric data such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and ionospheric electron density. The satellites hold significant potential in meteorological observation and play a vital role in demonstrating satellite internet constellation systems for industries like mining.
The JTX A-05 satellite carries a hyperspectral camera payload designed to capture high-resolution remote sensing images. The data collected will be instrumental in fields such as environmental monitoring, industrial emissions detection, gas leakage identification, agricultural surveillance, mineral exploration, forest management, and urban planning.
This launch brings the total number of satellites sent into orbit by the CERES-1 rocket series to 63 across 16 missions. Notably, the CERES-1 Y16 is the first rocket manufactured and assembled at Galactic Energy's new state-of-the-art research and development production base in Ziyang, Sichuan Province.
Looking ahead, the company is developing the CERES-2, a solid carrier rocket with a payload capacity of 1.6 tonnes. Meng Xianbo, Galactic Energy's Chief Government Affairs Officer, announced that the CERES-2 is expected to conduct four launches in 2025, with its maiden flight targeted for June.
In addition, Galactic Energy is advancing its reusable rocket program with the Pallas-1. Founder and CEO Liu Baiqi revealed at the Airshow China 2024 that 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.
Reference(s):
CERES-1 Soars: China's first commercial rocket launch of 2025
cgtn.com
