China launches first reusable satellite, with payloads from Thailand and Pakistan
The Shijian-19 is delivered into orbit on a mission to make progress in seed science and international space cooperation
China on Friday successfully launched its first reusable satellite in a mission that aims to make progress in seed science, microgravity research and international cooperation in space, according to state media.
The Shijian-19 was successfully delivered into orbit by a Long March 2D (CZ-2D) rocket from the northwestern Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre, state broadcaster CCTV said.
The new satellite represents progress in improving efficiencies – including lower costs – as well as faster testing of new technologies and conversion of research results into practical applications, the report said.
The launch “achieved a number of technological breakthroughs in the areas of reusability, high microgravity protection, high load-bearing ratios and re-entry environmental test services,” it said.
Additionally, the Shijian-19 also carried payloads from five countries, including Thailand and Pakistan, as part of China’s efforts to promote international cooperation in space, it added.
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The report did not say when the satellite will return to Earth.