China just hit a major milestone in space exploration! 🌟 On Saturday night, the brand-new Long March-12 carrier rocket blasted off from the Hainan commercial space launch site, sending test satellites soaring into orbit. This isn't just another launch—it's the first from China's newly built commercial launch site, and it's a game-changer. 💥
Built and ready in just 878 days (talk about speed!), the Hainan launch site faced some serious challenges. Think about it: a new launch pad, a fresh-out-the-box rocket, all-new procedures, and a rookie team. It's like assembling the Avengers but for space! 🦸♂️
They upped their tech game with a remote firing control system. All the ground control gear was centralized in the control building, and commands were sent from a second control hall. It's like something straight out of a sci-fi movie! 🎬
The second launch pad isn't just any pad—it's China's first general-purpose medium-sized liquid launch pad. It can handle nearly 20 different rocket types with diameters from 3.35 to 5 meters. Talk about versatility! 🛠️
Using a slick \"three-flat\" rapid processing method—horizontal assembly, testing, and transportation—they're streamlining launch operations like never before. This means they can prep for the next launch in just three days and reset the pad within a week. That's some next-level efficiency! ⏱️
Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the Long March-12 rocket. It's China's first 4-meter-diameter liquid-fueled launch vehicle. Standing at about 62 meters tall and weighing in at around 430 tonnes, it's a beast! 🦍 It can carry at least 12 tonnes to low-earth orbit and 6 tonnes to a 700-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit, making it the most powerful two-stage single-core rocket in China. Impressive, right? 🚀
The rocket is also super adaptable, fitting satellite fairings of 5.2 or 4.2 meters in diameter. Whether it's launching a single satellite or multiple ones into various orbits, the Long March-12 has got it covered. 🛰️
China's leap into commercial space launches isn't just about rockets and satellites; it's about pushing the boundaries and exploring new frontiers. Who knows? Maybe one day we'll be booking vacations to the stars! ✨🌌
Reference(s):
China's first commercial launch site debut with maiden flight of LM 12
cgtn.com
