Beijing-based rocket manufacturer Galactic Energy marked a significant milestone on January 20, 2025, with the successful launch of its CERES-1 Y16 carrier rocket. Blasting off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China at 6:11 p.m., the mission, aptly named \"On Your Shoulders,\" represents China's first commercial rocket launch of the year.
The CERES-1 Y16 rocket delivered five satellites into a 535-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit, including the Yunyao-1 37~40 satellites and the JTX A-05 satellite. This launch brings the total number of satellites sent into orbit by the CERES-1 series to 63 across 16 missions, showcasing the rocket's reliability and the company's rapid progress in the commercial space sector.
Notably, the CERES-1 Y16 is the first rocket to be manufactured and assembled at Galactic Energy's new-generation research and development and production base in Ziyang, Sichuan Province. This state-of-the-art facility signifies the company's commitment to advancing China's commercial aerospace capabilities.
Advanced Satellite Technology for Diverse Applications
The four Yunyao-1 satellites are equipped with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) occultation detection payloads. These instruments enable the satellites to gather critical data on atmospheric temperature, humidity, pressure, and ionospheric electron density. Such data is invaluable for meteorological observation and plays a crucial role in enhancing the accuracy of weather forecasting and climate models. Additionally, the satellites will aid in verifying demonstration scenarios for satellite internet constellation systems in the mining industry, among other applications.
The JTX A-05 satellite carries a hyperspectral camera payload designed to acquire high-resolution remote sensing images. The capabilities of this satellite extend to multiple fields, including environmental monitoring, industrial emissions detection, gas leakage identification, agricultural surveillance, mineral exploration, forest management, and urban planning. These applications underscore the growing importance of satellite technology in addressing global challenges and supporting sustainable development.
Future Endeavors: CERES-2 and Pallas-1 Rockets
Looking ahead, Galactic Energy is actively 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 to conduct four launches in 2025, with its maiden flight targeted for June. This ambitious schedule demonstrates the company's dedication to expanding its launch capabilities and serving a broader range of clients in the global space industry.
In parallel, the company is making significant strides with its reusable rocket, the Pallas-1. Having completed the development of most key technologies, the Pallas-1 is expected to make its maiden flight in the first half of this year. This advancement was confirmed by Galactic Energy's founder and CEO, Liu Baiqi, during the Airshow China 2024. The introduction of reusable launch vehicles is poised to significantly reduce the cost of access to space, making space exploration and satellite deployment more accessible than ever before.
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
