China launched a new communications satellite, ChinaSat-10R (Zhongxing-10R), into geosynchronous transfer orbit on February 22nd. A Long March 3B rocket successfully lifted off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) confirmed the launch's success. The U.S. Space Force later cataloged the satellite in its designated orbit.
“The ChinaSat-10R satellite will mainly provide satellite communication services to users in China’s transportation, emergency response, energy, forestry, and grassland sectors, as well as countries and regions along the Belt and Road,” a CASC statement explained. The satellite replaces the aging ChinaSat-10, launched in 2011. CASC has yet to release specifics about the satellite's transponders and bands.
This launch underscores China's commitment to expanding its satellite infrastructure and geopolitical influence via satellite diplomacy. ChinaSat, or Zhongxing, is operated by China Satellite Communications Co., Ltd. (China Satcom), a CASC subsidiary. The satellite series offers various communications services, including television, internet, and secure military communications.
The Long March 3B rocket, produced by CASC’s China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT), remains a key player in GTO missions, despite the development of newer launchers. The rocket's upcoming missions include the Tianwen-2 asteroid sample return mission. This launch marked China's eighth orbital launch of the year and follows the recent debut of the Long March 8A rocket.
CASC's plans for the year are still to be released, but expectations are high. Commercial launch companies in Beijing aim for about 40 launches. Significant future launches include the crewed Shenzhou-20 and -21 missions and additional launches planned for 2025.