The Chinese large reusable carrier rocket Tianlong-3 completed a 36-satellite separation test at Space Pioneer's intelligent manufacturing base in Zhangjiagang City, east China's Jiangsu Province, on October 24. This key milestone validates its liquid-propellant model's capacity to deploy multiple satellites in a single mission, a critical step for the Chinese mainland's satellite internet infrastructure.
Test engineers monitored each of the 36 satellites smoothly detaching at pre-programmed intervals, a testament to the rocket's precision and reliability. By harnessing a liquid-propellant design, Tianlong-3 offers flexibility and quicker turnaround times compared to solid-fuel counterparts, signaling a shift toward more sustainable and cost-effective launches.
As global demand for high-speed connectivity grows, mega-constellations are vying to bridge digital divides in remote regions. With this successful test, the Chinese mainland bolsters its role in the next wave of satellite internet providers, promising broader coverage and resilience against network disruptions.
For entrepreneurs and innovators in aerospace, Tianlong-3's achievement underscores the commercial potentials of reusable launch technology. Space Pioneer’s breakthrough paves the way for increased competition, new market entrants, and collaborations that could redefine space-based services across G20 nations.
Looking ahead, Space Pioneer plans to integrate more complex payloads and scale up launch cadence, eyeing orbital missions that could carry even larger constellations. Stay tuned as the future of satellite deployment unfolds from the Chinese mainland’s skies.
Reference(s):
Chinese aerospace firm completes 36-satellite separation test
cgtn.com
