China successfully launches test satellites for internet technology using Long M

China successfully launches test satellites for internet technology using Long March 2D

A Long March 2D rocket ascended into a clear blue sky following its launch from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, leaving behind a pinkish-orange exhaust trail. During the ascent, pieces of insulation were observed detaching from the payload fairing. 
A Long March 2D rocket ascends after its launch from the Jiuquan spaceport on April 1, 2025. Credit: Ourspace 
HELSINKI — On early Tuesday, China executed a launch as part of an unclear initiative involving test satellites for internet technology.

The Long March 2D rocket took off at 12:00 a.m. (0400 UTC) on April 1 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center located in the Gobi Desert. As the rocket ascended into the clear blue sky, insulation tiles were seen falling from the payload fairing, propelled by a hypergolic exhaust.

The Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST), a state-owned manufacturer of rockets, confirmed the successful launch and identified the payload as a satellite designed for testing internet technology (wexing hulianwang jishu shiyan weixing).

According to SAST, the satellite's primary purpose is to conduct technical tests and validate direct-to-cell satellite broadband and the integration of space-ground networks. No additional details or images of the satellite were provided.

The Radio Management Bureau of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) indicated that the launch included four test satellites for internet technology, designated 0001-0004, which carry Ka and other frequency band payloads.