China successfully launched a new communication technology experiment satellite from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China's Sichuan Province on Tuesday.

The satellite was launched at 11:41 p.m. by a Long March-3B carrier rocket and entered the planned orbit successfully.

This launch was the 386th mission for the Long March series carrier rockets, following the launch of three experimental satellites four hours earlier from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.

The Long March-3B carrier rocket is over 56 meters long and weighs 456 tonnes. It was developed by a division under China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.

The new rocket boasts improved efficiency, engine reliability and payload capacity.

(With input from Xinhua)