China launches internet satellites on efficient Long March-12 rocket

China successfully launched the 16th batch of low-Earth orbit (LEO) internet satellites Friday from its commercial launch site in southern Hainan Province. The mission lifted off at 7 a.m. Beijing Time (2300 GMT).

This launch underscores China's effort to rapidly build out its space-based internet network.

The Long March-12 rocket, developed by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, is designed specifically to be an efficient workhorse for commercial missions, particularly the high-demand satellite internet market.

The rocket is capable of delivering at least 12 tonnes of payload into LEO.

Crucially, the Long March-12 uses a specialized system that allows it to be assembled, tested and moved horizontally. This method is key to reducing the time needed between launches, enabling the rocket team to handle the high frequency of missions required by the satellite internet constellation.

This successful flight was the fourth for the Long March-12 and 616th for the entire Long March series. The rocket team streamlined operations for this mission, making the vehicle more efficient and lighter.

The Long March-12 is scheduled to conduct many more LEO launches over the next five years.

(Cover image via China Media Group)