On Thursday, a Long March-8A rocket blasted off from the Wenchang launch centre, carrying a batch of internet satellites into low Earth orbit. This mission marks the Long March series' 600th flight, cementing the Chinese mainland's reputation as a rising force in space exploration.
Since its debut in the 1970s, the Long March family has delivered nearly 1,400 spacecraft to orbit—covering more than 86% of the Chinese mainland's space launches. Operated by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, these rockets have powered landmark projects such as manned missions to the Tiangong space station, the BeiDou navigation network, and deep space probes to the Moon and Mars.
"These rockets have provided solid support for major aerospace projects," the contractor said in a press release, highlighting their role in advancing global connectivity and scientific discovery.
Beyond the numbers, the 600th launch reflects a broader momentum in the global space race. From start-up satellites to megaconstellations, space tech is fueling new business models—like broadband from orbit—and inspiring a generation of engineers, entrepreneurs, and travellers.
With reusable designs on the horizon and international collaborations rising, the next chapter of Long March missions could span lunar bases to asteroid sampling. For young global citizens, it's a reminder: the stars are closer than ever, and the Chinese mainland is reaching for them at warp speed.
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China's latest launch mission marks 600th flight of Long March rockets
cgtn.com
