China has kicked off its commercial space endeavors in 2025 with the successful launch of Galactic Energy's CERES-1 Y16 rocket. Blasting off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China at 6:11 p.m. on January 20, the mission, aptly named \"On Your Shoulders,\" marked a significant milestone for the nation's burgeoning private space sector.
The CERES-1 Y16 carrier rocket soared into the skies, delivering five satellites into a 535-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit. Among the payload were the Yunyao-1 37~40 satellites and the JTX A-05 satellite, each equipped with cutting-edge technology set to advance meteorological observation, remote sensing, and various commercial applications.
This launch signifies the 16th successful mission for the CERES-1 rocket series, which has now delivered a total of 63 satellites into their designated orbits. Notably, the CERES-1 Y16 is the first rocket fully manufactured and assembled at Galactic Energy's new-generation research and development and production base in Ziyang, Sichuan Province, highlighting the company's expanding capabilities.
The four Yunyao-1 satellites are equipped with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) occultation detection payloads. This technology enables the acquisition of vital atmospheric data, including temperature, humidity, pressure, and ionospheric electron density. The information gathered holds broad application prospects in meteorological observation and the verification of satellite internet constellation systems, with potential benefits for industries such as mining.
The JTX A-05 satellite, carrying a hyperspectral camera payload, is set to enhance remote sensing capabilities. The satellite will acquire high-resolution images applicable across multiple fields, 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. The Beijing-based company is advancing the development of 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 expected to conduct four launches in 2025, with its maiden flight targeted for June.
In addition, the company is making significant strides with its reusable rocket, the Pallas-1. Founder and CEO Liu Baiqi revealed at Airshow China 2024 that the Pallas-1 has completed the development of most key technologies and is slated for its maiden flight in the first half of this year. This development heralds a new era for China's private aerospace industry, marking a move toward cost-effective and sustainable space exploration.
Reference(s):
CERES-1 Soars: China's first commercial rocket launch of 2025
cgtn.com
