China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation is scheduled to launch a Long March 8 rocket as part of the G60 Group TBD mission. The launch is scheduled on 12/31/2024 00:00 UTC for the Communications mission launching from Wenchang Space Launch Site, People’s Republic of China. The status of the launch is Date/Time TBD. Don’t miss this exciting rocket launch! Watch the launch video of the Long March 8 and experience the excitement for yourself.
Mission: G60 Group TBD
Low Earth Orbit communication satellites with Ku, Q and V band payloads for the G60 constellation operated by Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST) with funding backed by the Shanghai local government.
Initial constellation will consist of 1296 satellites by 2027 with long term plans to expand it to 12000 satellites.
First launch from the Wenchang Commercial Space Launch Site’s LC-1.
Rocket: Long March 8
Long March 8 (Chinese: 长征八号运载火箭) is an orbital launch vehicle developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology to launch up to 5000 kg to a 700 km altitude Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO). The rocket is based on the Long March 7 with its first stage and 2 out of its 4 boosters, along with the existing liquid hydrogen burning 3rd stage of the Long March 3A/3B/3C and 7A as its 2nd stage.
A “Core Only” version omitting the boosters is also available.
Agency: China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) is the main contractor for the Chinese space program. It is state-owned and has a number of subordinate entities which design, develop and manufacture a range of spacecraft, launch vehicles, strategic and tactical missile systems, and ground equipment. It was officially established in July 1999 as part of a Chinese government reform drive, having previously been one part of the former China Aerospace Corporation. Various incarnations of the program date back to 1956.