China Successfully Launches New Communication Technology Test Satellite

Rocket launching a new communication satellite into space.
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    China has successfully launched a new communication technology test satellite aboard a Long March-5 rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Hainan Province. The launch, which occurred on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 8:30 p.m., marks another step forward in China’s advancements in space-based communication capabilities.

    Key Takeaways

    • A new communication technology test satellite was launched by China.
    • The launch vehicle was a Long March-5 rocket.
    • The satellite will be used for multi-band and high-speed communication technology tests.

    Satellite and Launch Vehicle Details

    The newly launched satellite was developed by the China Academy of Space Technology. Its primary purpose is to conduct validation tests for multi-band and high-speed communication technologies. This advanced satellite is expected to contribute significantly to the development of future communication systems.

    The Long March-5 rocket, responsible for delivering the satellite into orbit, is a powerful liquid-propellant launch vehicle. It features a substantial fairing, measuring 5.2 meters in diameter and 18.5 meters in height. This robust design is specifically tailored to accommodate the growing needs of China’s large satellite platforms and enhances the rocket’s versatility for various mission profiles.

    Mission Significance

    This launch represents the 618th mission for the Long March carrier rocket series, underscoring the program’s extensive operational history and reliability. The successful deployment of this test satellite highlights China’s ongoing commitment to expanding its capabilities in space technology, particularly in the critical field of satellite communications.

    Sources