Long March 8 (Core Only) (China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation)
The Long March 8 (Core Only) is a non-reusable, active launch vehicle manufactured by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (established in 1999). It undertook its inaugural launch on 02/27/2022.
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 "Core Only" is based on the Long March 7 with its first stage, along with the existing liquid hydrogen burning 3rd stage of the Long March 3A/3B/3C and 7A as its 2nd stage. This version can lift 3000 kg to a 700 km altitude SSO.
Long March 8 (Core Only) Specifications
| Variant | 8 |
|---|---|
| Length | 48 m |
| Diameter | 3.35 m |
| Stages | 2 |
| Launch Mass | 198 T |
| Takeoff Thrust | 2400 kN |
| SSO Capacity | 3000 kg |
Long March 8 (Core Only) Launch Record
| Total Launches | 1 |
|---|---|
| Successful Launches | 1 |
| Consecutive Successful Launches | 1 |
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.