Xingyun VDES
Kuaizhou 11
ExPace
Mission
Xingyun VDES
- Type: Communications
- Orbit: Sun-Synchronous Orbit
Test satellite for CASIC’s own Xingyun Low Earth Orbit communication satellite constellation, with a VHF Data Exchange System payload for maritime traffic operation uses.
Location
Launch Area 95A
Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, People’s Republic of China
Launch Area 95A has witnessed the launch of 55 rockets, including 55 orbital launch attempts, while Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, People’s Republic of China, has been the site for 229 rocket launches.
Rocket
ExPace Kuaizhou-11
The Kuaizhou-11 (KZ-11), is a planned Chinese commercial launch vehicle.
Reportedly, the payload is about 1000 kg for low earth orbit and 700 kg for a sun-synchronous orbit.
The three stage rocket is possibly based on the DF-31 missile. It consists of three solid-fueled stages. The principal diameter is 2.2 m and the launch weight is 78 tons. the first stage features four grid rudders. The vehicle is launched from a launch truck.
Agency
ExPace
ExPace is a Chinese space rocket company based in Wuhan, Hubei, China. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of missileer China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC), a Chinese state-owned company, and serves as its commercial rocket division. ExPace is focused on small satellite launchers to low Earth orbit.
