China’s Lijian-1 rocket launches 15 satellites-one for Oman. (Video)

Milestone: China’s Lijian-1 rocket launches 15 satellites, including one for Oman!

BY:SpaceEyeNews.

Introduction to the Launch Event

On November 11, 2024, China’s Lijian-1, also known as Kinetica-1, launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, marking a pivotal advancement in China’s commercial space sector. At exactly 12:03 p.m. Beijing Time, the 135-ton rocket ascended into space, carrying 15 satellites into a near-polar orbit. This launch isn’t just another milestone in China’s space exploration journey; it represents a turning point in the commercialization of China’s space sector, positioning the nation to serve both domestic and international clients with cutting-edge satellite deployment.

The Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, where the Lijian-1 took off, has been central to China’s space endeavors since its founding. But this launch occurred within the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Test Area, a specialized zone within Jiuquan designed to cater to China’s emerging commercial space companies. The area is part of a larger strategy to streamline access to spaceports for companies, alleviating bottlenecks and promoting rapid development in the sector. With this launch, China demonstrated its readiness to move further into the commercial space market, showcasing technological prowess, streamlined processes, and international collaboration.

Breaking Barriers: China’s Growing Commercial Space Industry

The Lijian-1 mission represents China’s evolving approach to space, shifting from state-dominated projects to include substantial commercial initiatives. Developed by CAS Space, a commercial spin-off of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Lijian-1 rocket embodies China’s ambitions to compete globally, not only by achieving advanced technological milestones but also by creating a viable commercial market for satellite launches. CAS Space has previously focused on state-led space projects, but its pivot to commercial contracts signals China’s intent to enter the competitive international space economy dominated by private players like SpaceX and Rocket Lab.

Operating within the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Test Area, CAS Space and similar firms like Landspace and Space Pioneer can now capitalize on shared resources and streamlined launch capabilities. This concentrated innovation hub serves as a launch pad for China’s commercial space sector, enabling more frequent launches and reducing the bottlenecks that previously hampered growth. By fostering a collaborative environment for commercial players, China is establishing itself as a key competitor, especially as CAS Space aims to take on international contracts and position itself as a viable alternative for countries and companies seeking reliable and affordable satellite launch options.

International Cooperation Highlight: Oman’s IRSS-1 Satellite

Among the 15 satellites deployed was Oman’s IRSS-1/OL-1, an intelligent optical remote sensing satellite. Developed through a collaborative effort between Chinese firms and Omani engineers, this satellite is a testament to China’s capacity to extend its commercial reach beyond domestic borders. Facilitated by the China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC), an entity under China’s main space contractor CASC, the IRSS-1 is an example of how China is leveraging its technological and logistical infrastructure to serve international clients.

The IRSS-1 satellite is a critical step for Oman, which aims to strengthen its capabilities in remote sensing for various applications, such as environmental monitoring and resource management. For CAS Space, this international payload demonstrates their capability to manage complex, multinational contracts. Traditionally, CGWIC has facilitated international launches on CASC’s Long March rockets, but with this mission, CAS Space has shown that it too can cater to global clients, signaling a major shift in China’s strategy to attract and serve international partners.

The success of the IRSS-1 satellite launch is expected to pave the way for further international partnerships, particularly with nations looking to enhance their space-based infrastructure without investing in a national space program. As China continues to position itself as a go-to provider for these services, its influence in the global space sector will likely expand, bringing new opportunities for cooperation and technological exchange.

High-Tech Environmental Monitoring: Xiguang-1 Satellites for Methane Detection

A particularly groundbreaking aspect of this mission was the inclusion of the Xiguang-1 04 and 05 satellites, developed by Xi’an Zhongke Xiguang Aerospace Technology Co. (Xiopm Space). These are China’s first commercial satellites specifically designed for high-resolution methane detection, equipped with advanced sensors capable of capturing methane emissions from point sources across the globe. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas with a significant impact on global warming, has become a major focus for environmental monitoring.

Xiguang-1 04 and 05 are equipped with methane cameras, chlorophyll cameras, and multispectral and hyperspectral imaging capabilities. This advanced instrumentation allows for precise tracking of methane emissions, helping to identify specific sources of leaks in industries like oil and gas. With high-frequency observation capability, these satellites can monitor emission trends over time, providing a crucial dataset for assessing carbon neutrality efforts. This capability supports the creation of a robust methane emission supervision system, aligning with China’s national and international commitments to combating climate change.

The launch of these satellites represents China’s technological advancement in addressing environmental issues on a global scale. By offering such high-resolution data on methane leaks, China is positioning itself as a leader in climate-focused space technology, reinforcing its commitment to global ecological protection.

Expanding Constellations for Earth Observation: Jilin-1 Satellites

In addition to methane monitoring, the mission also deployed two Jilin-1 satellites, Gaofen 05B and Pintai 02A03, which contribute to the expanding Jilin-1 constellation operated by Chang Guang Satellite Technology Co., Ltd. (CGST). With at least 117 satellites already in orbit, CGST aims to scale up the constellation to 300 satellites by 2027, aiming for daily global coverage that can support a wide array of remote sensing applications, from land use monitoring to disaster response.

These satellites are part of China’s broader ambition to dominate the Earth observation market, providing high-resolution imaging that can serve sectors as diverse as agriculture, urban planning, and security. The Jilin-1 Gaofen 05B, for example, acts as a technology demonstrator for the high-resolution Gaofen 05 constellation, designed to capture incredibly detailed images of Earth. Meanwhile, the Pintai 02A03 satellite will offer enhanced optical remote sensing capabilities, furthering CGST’s mission to provide comprehensive situational analysis and target monitoring for a global clientele.

With an eye on expanding its data services, CGST’s plan to increase the Jilin-1 constellation reflects China’s commitment to becoming a leading provider of high-quality remote sensing information, positioning itself to compete with other major players in the satellite imaging market.

Technological Developments: Upcoming Kinetica-2 Rocket

Looking ahead, CAS Space is already developing its next-generation rocket, Kinetica-2, expected to launch in September 2025. This rocket will have a payload capacity significantly greater than its predecessor, with the ability to carry up to 7,800 kilograms to sun-synchronous orbit and 12,000 kilograms to low Earth orbit. Such payload capabilities will allow CAS Space to serve a broader client base, including those requiring larger, more complex satellite arrays.

One of the key features in development for Kinetica-2 is reusability, with potential recovery tests slated for the end of 2026. Reusable rockets have become the gold standard in reducing costs for space missions, and CAS Space’s commitment to developing this technology signals its competitive ambition in the global commercial launch market. Beyond Kinetica-2, CAS Space has already secured a role in launching a low-cost cargo transportation system to the Tiangong space station, and by 2027, the company plans to offer suborbital tourist flights—a venture that, if successful, will introduce a new source of revenue and public engagement in space activities.

China’s Space Launch Milestone for 2024 and Upcoming Missions

The Lijian-1 launch marked China’s 54th orbital launch of the year, underscoring the country’s commitment to maintaining a high launch cadence as it develops its space capabilities. In the coming days, China is preparing for the Tianzhou-8 cargo resupply mission to the Tiangong space station, slated for November 15, and additional launches from Landspace’s Zhuque-2 rocket. This steady stream of launches highlights China’s growing activity in space, which includes manned missions, satellite constellations, and ambitious exploration projects.

With each launch, China continues to build its reputation as a reliable spacefaring nation, dedicated not only to advancing its own scientific and commercial goals but also to contributing to global space efforts through partnerships and innovative technological solutions.

Conclusion

China’s November 11 launch of the Lijian-1 rocket, carrying 15 satellites including Oman’s IRSS-1, stands as a testament to the country’s advances in commercial space capabilities. From international collaborations to state-of-the-art environmental monitoring satellites, this mission underscores China’s commitment to both global engagement and scientific innovation. As CAS Space and other companies within the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Test Area continue to push technological boundaries, China is setting the stage for a future in which it plays a central role in the international space economy. This achievement not only paves the way for further international partnerships but also highlights China’s dedication to using space technology to address pressing global issues like climate change. The Lijian-1 launch symbolizes a future where China’s commercial space industry offers valuable contributions to science, technology, and international cooperation, making it a milestone well worth celebrating.

References:

https://english.news.cn/20241111/db954cccd41445c5b83e6ac721482f4c/c.html