In a significant move to bolster China's commercial space industry, the commercial spacecraft launch site in China's southern island province of Hainan has initiated its second phase of construction. The development includes adding two new launch pads designed for liquid propellant rockets, marking a major expansion of the site's capabilities.
Construction on the new phase began on Saturday and spans over 133 hectares along the coast of suburban Wenchang City, according to Hainan International Commercial Aerospace, the operator of the launch site.
The second phase is set to enhance the site with comprehensive facilities, including the two new launch pads and supporting systems such as a propellant fueling system and gas supply system. Additionally, it will feature a commercial aerospace command and control center, a rocket assembly and testing building, and a tracking, telemetry, and command station.
According to the operator, this expansion will significantly boost the launch site's capabilities, meeting the increasing demand for commercial space launches within China. It is also expected to contribute to Hainan's efforts in building an innovative industrial cluster dedicated to the commercial space sector.
Phase one of the launch site, which also included two launch pads, was completed in 878 days, with its inaugural launch mission taking place on November 30, 2024.
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Commercial spacecraft launch site in Hainan to add new launch pads
cgtn.com
