Long March 3B/E (China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation)
The Long March 3B/E is a non-reusable, active launch vehicle manufactured by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (established in 1999). It undertook its inaugural launch on 05/13/2007.
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.
Long March 3B/E Specifications
| Variant | B/E |
|---|---|
| Alias | CZ-3B/E |
| Length | 56.3 m |
| Diameter | 3.35 m |
| Stages | 3 |
| Launch Mass | 456 T |
| Takeoff Thrust | 5924 kN |
| LEO Capacity | 12000 kg |
| GTO Capacity | 5500 kg |
| Launch Cost | $70,000,000 |
Long March 3B/E Launch Record
| Total Launches | 78 |
|---|---|
| Successful Launches | 76 |
| Failed Launches | 2 |
| Consecutive Successful Launches | 2 |
Manufacturer
Chairman & President: Lei Fanpei
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.