Early Thursday, China launched a series of satellites from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, likely for testing inter-satellite laser links. A Long March 2D rocket, equipped with a Yuanzheng-3 restartable upper stage, lifted off at 2:17 a.m. Eastern (0717 UTC) Dec. 12. The successful launch was confirmed by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) after the YZ-3 upper stage deployed the payloads into their designated orbits.
CASC identified the payloads as five satellites composing the “high-speed laser Diamond Constellation test system.” While specifics weren't disclosed, the designation points towards testing inter-satellite laser communication. U.S. space tracking identified five payloads in three distinct orbits, indicating a complex deployment strategy. The orbits ranged from approximately 791 x 812 kilometers to 988 x 1,160 kilometers, all inclined at 59.9 degrees.
This technology is vital for China's large-scale constellation projects, such as the Guowang and Qianfan constellations. Inter-satellite laser links could significantly improve communication capabilities by mitigating the limitations of ground station coverage, a challenge currently addressed through onboard space situational awareness systems. Changguang Satellite previously demonstrated space-to-ground laser links in 2023, showcasing China’s advancements in this area.
The launch represented the fourth use of the YZ-3 upper stage, developed by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST) for use with the Long March 2D rocket. This launch comes after a previous Yuanzheng-1A upper stage failure earlier in the year, highlighting the ongoing challenges and advancements in space launch technology. Despite this, China's space program continues its rapid expansion, with this launch being its 63rd orbital launch attempt of 2024.
Further launches are planned for mid-to-late December, potentially surpassing last year's record of 67 orbital launches. A Long March 5B rocket is scheduled to launch potential Guowang megaconstellation satellites from Wenchang on Dec. 16, and a Long March 8 launch from the new Hainan spaceport is also anticipated. The Hainan spaceport recently hosted its first launch, the debut flight of the Long March 12 rocket on November 30th.