Zhongxing-18 (Chinasat-18)

Mission

Zhongxing-18 (Chinasat-18)

Type: Communications

Zhongxing-18 (Chinasat-18) is a Chinese communications satellite based upon a DFH-4E bus. The Chinasat-18 provides Ku commercial communications services with 30 Ku-band transponders, Ka broadband communication services with 14 Ka-band MSS spot user beams and exploring Ka-band broadcasting services with 2 Ka BSS-band transponders within the service coverage areas.

Location

Launch Complex 2 (LC-2)

Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People’s Republic of China

103 rockets have launched from Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People’s Republic of China.

Rocket

Long March 3

Length: 56.3 meters
Diameter: 3.35 meters
First Launch: May 13, 2007

The Long March 3B / E (G2) (CZ-3B / E) is one of the most successful medium-range launchers and the strongest variant of the CZ-3 series.
It was specially developed for the transport of heavy communications satellites into a geostationary transfer orbit.

The additional designation “E” stands for a higher payload fairing, stretched boosters and extended fuel tanks at the first stage, over the CZ-3B.

The Long March 3 rocket has been launched a total of 37 times with 36 successful and 1 failed launches.

Agency

China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation

Type: Government
Abbreviation: CASC
Administration: Chairmen & President: Lei Fanpei
Founded: 1999
Launchers: Long March

Country: CHN

The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) is the main contractor for the Chinese space program. It is state-owned and has a number of subordinate entities which design, develop and manufacture a range of spacecraft, launch vehicles, strategic and tactical missile systems, and ground equipment. It was officially established in July 1999 as part of a Chinese government reform drive, having previously been one part of the former China Aerospace Corporation. Various incarnations of the program date back to 1956.