China successfully deployed a new group of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites early Friday morning, marking another milestone in its expanding space infrastructure. The Long March-6A carrier rocket lifted off at 4:45 a.m. local time from Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi Province, piercing the dawn sky with a dramatic plume captured by photographer Chen Bingchao as it passed Chang'an Tower.
This launch represents the fourth installment of satellites in a planned internet constellation designed to enhance global connectivity. The modified rocket variant demonstrates China's growing technical capabilities in reusable launch systems and satellite network deployment.
Space analysts highlight the strategic importance of LEO satellite clusters for both commercial and scientific applications. "These networks support everything from rural broadband access to precision agriculture monitoring," noted Beijing-based space policy researcher Dr. Wei Lin, speaking to KhabarAsia. The launch follows recent advancements in China's BeiDou navigation system and crewed space station operations.
