China marked a milestone in its space program on December 10, 2025, with the successful launch of the Lijian-1 carrier rocket from the Dongfeng commercial space innovation pilot zone near Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. The Kinetica-1 Y11 variant lifted off at 12:03 p.m. Beijing Time, deploying nine satellites into planned orbits in a display of growing technical prowess.
The payload included the UAE-developed 813 satellite, a cutting-edge environmental monitoring platform designed to analyze soil composition and climate patterns. This collaboration underscores deepening technological ties between China and Middle Eastern partners.
Chinese space authorities emphasized the mission's role in advancing Earth observation capabilities while supporting sustainable development goals. The launch represents China's seventh orbital mission this year, demonstrating accelerated progress in commercial space operations since the establishment of the Dongfeng innovation zone in 2023.
