China's Changzheng 8 Rocket Successfully Launches Satellite to Medium and Low Earth Orbit

[Asia Economy Reporter Onyu Lim] China has successfully launched the Long March 8 rocket, which carries satellites to low Earth orbit.

According to the state-run Xinhua News Agency on the 22nd, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation launched the Long March 8 rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Hainan the previous day. The Long March 8 carried five satellites, including Yuanwanghao. The launch was the first mission of the Long March 8 and marked the 356th successful launch of the Long March rocket series, the agency reported.

The agency stated, "Currently, there is a gap in China's rocket lineup for rockets capable of carrying 3 to 4.5 tons to sun-synchronous orbit," adding, "The successful launch of the Long March 8 fills this gap."

The solid-propellant Long March 8 rocket is 50.3 meters long, 3.35 meters in diameter, and weighs 356 tons. It can carry payloads, including satellites, weighing 3 to 4.5 tons to sun-synchronous orbit.