Private players make their mark with space missions

The first launch service tower was completed at Hainan International Commercial Aerospace Launch Center in Wenchang, a coastal city in the island province of Hainan, on Dec 29, the last work day of 2023.

However, work continues at the center for its maiden launch, which is expected to take place around June.

When put into operation, the center will become the fifth ground-based launch complex in China and the first dedicated to serving commercial space missions rather than government-funded programs.

In China, a commercial space mission generally refers to a space activity paid for by a business entity rather than a government department.

Construction of the new center, which began in July 2022, was undertaken by China Aerospace Construction Group.

The No 1 service tower is about 90 meters high and incorporates the latest rocket-launch technologies. It is specifically tasked with servicing Long March 8 carrier rockets.

Developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, a subsidiary of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp, the Long March 8 family consists of multiple medium-lift launch vehicles designated for commercial space missions.

Yang Tianliang, chairman of Hainan International Commercial Aerospace Launch Co, owner of the new center, said the complex's debut mission scheduled for June will be performed by a Long March 8 rocket lifting off from the No 1 service tower.

The new center project is a joint venture by the Hainan provincial government and three State-owned space conglomerates — China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp, China Aerospace Science and Industry Corp, and China Satellite Network Group.