China's Zhuque-2E rocket launches 10 satellites in one go

 

(ECNS) -- Chinese private rocket company LandSpace launched 10 satellites on Tuesday, marking the first time a Chinese private rocket firm undertaking a launch mission for a large satellite internet constellation. 

At 2:26 p.m. Beijing Time, a Zhuque-2E Y7 carrier rocket lifted off from the Dongfeng commercial space innovation pilot zone in northwest China, deploying the 10 satellites of the Qianfan Polar Orbit 19 Group.

The launch was the ninth flight of the Zhuque 2 series. Zhuque 2E, with a payload capacity of 6 metric tons, is LandSpace’s main rocket for regular commercial launches.

The company is also developing the reusable Zhuque 3, designed to carry about 18 metric tons in reusable mode. LandSpace said it will continue Zhuque 2E launches while advancing Zhuque 3 validation.

(By Helen Mo & intern Liu Shuangjing)