Shijian 21
Long March 3B
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
Mission
Shijian 21
- Type: Government/Top Secret
- Orbit: Geostationary Transfer Orbit
- Launch Cost: $70,000,000
Chinese payload launching on trajectory consistent with geostationary transfer target orbit, official purpose declared as “validation of on orbit space debris reduction technologies”.
Location
Launch Complex 2 (LC-2)
Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People’s Republic of China
Launch Complex 2 (LC-2) has witnessed the launch of 111 rockets, including 111 orbital launch attempts, while Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People’s Republic of China, has been the site for 210 rocket launches.
Rocket
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 3B/E
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.
Agency
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
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.
Well done we are all for orbital debris reduction , removal.
Nice launch CASC pity it was not telecast maybe next time .