China Successfully Launches Nine Satellites from Sea Using Gravity-1 Rocket

This mission is noted as the world's first mobile sea-based launch for a low-Earth-orbit broadband internet constellation networking mission. The total payload mass exceeded 3 tons, with the insertion altitude reaching 800 kilometers, demonstrating the sea-launch capability for medium-to-large satellite payloads.

The Gravity-1 rocket, which has a maximum LEO capacity of 6.5 tons, has shown its reliability in high-temperature, high-humidity, and high-salt-fog maritime conditions. This launch, occurring just 56 days after its previous mission, further confirms the vehicle's operational competencies.

Wang Ya'nan, editor-in-chief of Aerospace Knowledge magazine, highlighted that this launch significantly advances China's commercial space sector, particularly in solid-fuel rockets and large-scale constellation capabilities. The successful deployment of the eight Qianfan satellites is also a step forward in building China’s first giant low-orbit commercial satellite constellation.

The development of the reusable Gravity-2, a large liquid-propellant rocket with an anticipated LEO capacity of 21.5 tons, is progressing and expected to debut soon. In August, China had another successful sea launch with the Smart Dragon-3 rocket, demonstrating the growing trend of maritime space launches in China.

Wang explained that the main advantage of sea launches lies in their mobility; launch platforms can be positioned in optimal locations, particularly in low-latitude areas, which allows for more favorable orbital insertion opportunities. Additionally, launches directed toward the sea significantly lessen the impact on coastal communities.