Chinese commercial rocket firm Galactic Energy, developer of the CERES-1 rocket, has improved sea-based launch technology to provide enhanced launch services for satellite deployment missions.
Since its first launch in 2020, the CERES-1 has made itself a symbol of China's commercial satellite industry, becoming one of the earliest reliable options designed and produced in the country.
The latest rocket, a sea-borne variant of four-stage launch vehicle, blasted off at 16:12 (Beijing Time) from the waters surrounding the eastern province of Shandong, placing a group of four satellites into planned orbit.
It was the rocket series' 12th flight mission.
"After this launch, we plan to complete four more sea-based launches this year. By combining sea-based and land-based launches, we aim to provide enhanced launch services for different satellite deployment missions in the market," said Liu Baiqi, founder of Galactic Energy.
Combining solid-state propulsion in its early stages and liquid propulsion in its last stage, the CERES-1 is adaptable to mission requirements and capable of meeting diverse launch payload demands.
Galactic Energy's bid to optimize its offshore launch capabilities may allow the company to push its advantage even further, reducing transport costs and improving launch positioning.
Faced with the uncertainty of sea-based launches, the research team has managed to address technical challenges to ensure safety.
"We have developed a low-cost locking and releasing mechanism to fasten the rocket before the launch and release it during the launch from the ship. We have also resolved the issue of rocket orientation and stabilization in case of hull shaking, enabling precise positioning, orientation, and navigation of the rocket," Liu said.
Chinese commercial rocket firm improves sea launch capability for satellite deployment
On his second official visit to China, Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu Charlot Salwai expressed admiration for China's remarkable ability to balance preserving its cultural heritage with embracing innovative transformation.
Salwai paid an official visit to China from July 7 to 12. During his trip, he toured the southern province of Guangdong and explored the megacities of Beijing and Shanghai. His visit included tours of high-tech companies, a ride on a high-speed train, and a performance of traditional Cantonese opera.
In an interview with China Central Television Network (CCTV) aired on Friday, Salwai recounted his journey starting with a warm welcome that included enjoying Beijing Roast Duck, also known as Peking Duck -- a culinary delight introduced to him by the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu.
"Many had to say. Peking Duck. Because we had it here on our arrival, so it was very tasty. And I understand that the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu brought us to one of the traditional restaurants, small but beautiful," he said. The prime minister sees China's preservation of its culture as a vital lesson in understanding one's roots and the journey to the present day, acknowledging China's efforts to integrate cultural preservation with modernization.
"It's going to be my second official visit to China. I'm always impressed to see big changes and especially innovations made by China and especially the cities. Because a big impression is to see how China continues to maintain and keep its culture. Because I think it's the basis of everything -- to know where you come from and to understand where we are today. I feel that China is doing a lot to maintain its culture, but at the same time, doing, innovating to transform its culture,” Salwai said.
He also emphasized the importance of learning from China's sustainable development strategies.
"Today, it comes from a long way, some hardship, the government, and also the people of China. So, I'm impressed to see what is done, especially how China associates infrastructure development with nature. That's meant to keep, continue to keep the environment. It takes effort with the climate change by maintaining the ecosystem. I think it's something that, for a small country like Vanuatu, is important to learn. So, we are here. I'm here with my delegation to learn," Salwai said.
Vanuatu's PM commends China's cultural preservation, innovation amid fast growth
