Chinese firm launches satellite from mobile sea platform, testing potential tech for national space programme
- Galactic Energy’s Ceres-1 rocket lifted off near Shandong province, sending four satellites into orbit as part of Internet of Things constellation
- Tianqi 21-24 satellites equipped with chemical propulsion systems allowing for orbital manoeuvres over a distance of more than 300km
While previous sea launches involved a launch tube or rack mounted on the floating platform to hold the rocket, Ceres-1 took off from a transport erector launcher which was driven onto and fixed to the barge, according to the company’s official WeChat account.
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The company says it is the world’s first hot launch on a land transport launch vehicle at sea.
The launch vehicle was fixed on the ship with a magnesium strip locking mechanism added to the tail end of the rocket. The structure was simple, easy to operate and required low ground-support conditions.
Before ignition, the magnesium strip locking mechanism could ensure the vertical safety of the rocket under shaking conditions. After ignition, it could be removed and unlocked for a reliable take-off.
It is the world’s first solid rocket locking and release mechanism that does not use explosives, according to the company.
Sam Bresnick, a research fellow at Georgetown University’s Centre for Security and Emerging Technology, said there were major advantages to sea launches.