China launched the construction of a new space centre yesterday in Wenchang , Hainan , as part of a campaign to challenge the dominance of the US and Russia from both a space and a business standpoint.
A launch site at low latitude is a must if China is to expand its presence in space, as part of its strategy to provide a lower-cost option to countries and businesses seeking to launch satellites.
What is more, officials claim that when the centre is completed in 2013, it will be the biggest, most accessible and environmentally friendly space facility in the country.
'This launch centre is completely different from the others,' said Professor Wang Xudong, a retired senior satellite designer on the mainland.
'Taiyuan, Xichang and Jiuquan were built as military facilities. You must keep a great distance [from them]. There are soldiers holding guns in their green uniforms.
'Wenchang is built for civilians. You can get close, really close, to watch the take-offs.'
Spectators will be able to watch the launches in swimsuits, as Hainan, the southernmost province of China, features tropical beaches.
