The Smart Dragon 3 carrier rocket, which was made in Haiyang, Shandong province, successfully sent a test satellite into orbit above the sea near Yangjiang, Guangdong province.

This launch marked the second mission of the Smart Dragon 3 carrier rocket series following the successful maiden flight of this type of rocket.

The Smart Dragon 3 carrier rocket for this mission was made at the solid carrier rocket assembly and testing base in Haiyang, Shandong province.

Before being transported to the designated sea area for launch, the Smart Dragon 3 carrier rocket underwent technical preparations at Haiyang's Oriental Maritime Space Port.

This successful mission showcased the practicality of long-distance maneuverable launches at sea. The mission's satellite was uniquely positioned at a 30-degree angle, overcoming challenges related to satellite attitude control and separation safety.

The launch significantly shortened fulfillment cycles, enhanced market service capabilities, and catered to future high-frequency launch demands.

In addition, the first phase of the Shandong Haiyang solid carrier rocket assembly and testing base, where the Smart Dragon 3 and other solid carrier rockets are located, is now capable of producing 10 rockets per year.

The construction of the second phase of the solid carrier rocket assembly and testing base in Haiyang is expected to be complete by the end of December 2023. The second phase will increase the manufacturing capacity to 20 solid carrier rockets per year. 

The Smart Dragon 3 carrier rocket is set to undertake at least five launch missions in 2024.

The Smart Dragon 3 carrier rocket successfully sends a test satellite into orbit above the sea near Yangjiang, Guangdong province. [Photo by Zhang Jingyi for chinadaily.com.cn]