China launches new communication technology test satellite

China launched a new communication technology test satellite on Tuesday from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in the southwestern province of Sichuan.

A Long March-3B rocket, carrying the Shiyan-22 satellite, blasted off at 11:08 p.m. Beijing Time, and sent the satellite into the preset orbit.

The satellite will be mainly used for satellite communication, radio and television broadcast and data transmission, among other services. It will conduct relevant technical tests and validations as well.

The launch marked the 615th flight mission of China's Long March carrier rocket series.

The Long March carrier rockets set a new record on Tuesday by successfully completing three launch missions, sending the 15th group of low-orbit internet satellites, Yaogan-47 satellite and Shiyan-22 satellite into orbit.