Shijian 17
Long March 5 / YZ-2
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
Mission
Shijian-17
- Type: Government/Top Secret
- Orbit: Geostationary Orbit
This will be the maiden flight of the Long March 5, which is China’s next-generation heavy-lift space launch system, comparable in performance to the European Ariane 5 and the U.S. Delta IV Heavy. The rocket is powered by RP-1 and Hydrogen, and will be able to place 25 tonnes into low earth orbit.
It is carrying Shijian-17, an experimental satellite, reportedly tasked with testing ion propulsion systems for future space station keeping uses.
Location
101
Wenchang Space Launch Site, People’s Republic of China
101 has witnessed the launch of 11 rockets, including 11 orbital launch attempts, while Wenchang Space Launch Site, People’s Republic of China, has been the site for 28 rocket launches.
Rocket
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 5/YZ-2
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.