China launched a new communication technology test satellite from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in southern China's Hainan Province on Saturday.

A Long March-5 rocket carrying the satellite blasted off at 8:30 p.m., sending it into the preset orbit.

Developed by the China Academy of Space Technology, the satellite will be mainly used for multi-band and high-speed communication technology validation tests.

The Long March-5 rocket, developed by China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, is a liquid-propellant launch vehicle. It uses a fairing with a diameter of 5.2 meters and a height of 18.5 meters. This configuration can better adapt to the development needs of the country's large satellite platforms and further enhance the rocket's ability to perform diversified missions.

The launch was the 618th flight mission of the Long March carrier rocket series.