Beijing-based rocket manufacturer Galactic Energy has successfully launched the CERES-1 Y16 rocket, marking China's first commercial rocket launch of 2025. The rocket lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China at 6:11 p.m. on January 20, carrying five satellites into a 535-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit.
Dubbed \"On Your Shoulders,\" the mission saw the CERES-1 Y16 deliver the Yunyao-1 37~40 satellites and the JTX A-05 satellite into their designated orbits. This launch signifies a milestone for Galactic Energy, as it is the first rocket manufactured and assembled in the company's new-generation 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, enabling the acquisition of atmospheric data such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and ionospheric electron density. These satellites hold significant potential for applications in meteorological observation and the demonstration of satellite internet constellation systems for industries like mining.
The JTX A-05 satellite, carrying a hyperspectral camera payload, is designed to acquire high-resolution remote sensing images. Its capabilities extend across multiple fields, including environmental monitoring, industrial emissions detection, gas leakage identification, agricultural surveillance, mineral exploration, forest management, and urban planning.
Meng Xianbo, the company's Chief Government Affairs Officer, announced that Galactic Energy is developing the CERES-2, a solid carrier rocket with a payload capability of 1.6 tonnes. The CERES-2 is expected to conduct four launches in 2025, with its maiden flight targeted for June.
In addition, Galactic Energy is making strides in reusable rocket technology. According to the founder and CEO, Liu Baiqi, their reusable rocket, the Pallas-1, has completed the development of most key technologies and is expected to have its maiden flight in the first half of this year. This advancement was shared during the Airshow China 2024.
With the successful launch of the CERES-1 Y16, Galactic Energy has completed 16 launches in the CERES-1 rocket series, sending a total of 63 satellites into their pre-set orbits. The company's ongoing developments in rocket technology underscore China's growing capabilities in commercial space endeavors and its commitment to expanding access to space for various industries.
(CGTN's Zhao Chenchen and Zhang Haoyudi also contributed to this story.)
Reference(s):
CERES-1 Soars: China's first commercial rocket launch of 2025
cgtn.com
