Long March 8 (China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation)
The Long March 8 is a non-reusable, active launch vehicle manufactured by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (established in 1999). It undertook its inaugural launch on 12/22/2020.
Long March 8 (Chinese: 长征八号运载火箭) is an orbital launch vehicle developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology to launch up to 5000 kg to a 700 km altitude Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO). The rocket is based on the Long March 7 with its first stage and 2 out of its 4 boosters, along with the existing liquid hydrogen burning 3rd stage of the Long March 3A/3B/3C and 7A as its 2nd stage.
A "Core Only" version omitting the boosters is also available.
Long March 8 Specifications
| Length | 50.34 m |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 3.35 m |
| Stages | 2 |
| Launch Mass | 356 T |
| Takeoff Thrust | 4800 kN |
| LEO Capacity | 8100 kg |
| GTO Capacity | 2800 kg |
| SSO Capacity | 5000 kg |
Long March 8 Launch Record
| Total Launches | 6 |
|---|---|
| Successful Launches | 6 |
| Consecutive Successful Launches | 6 |
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.