China kicks off Friday with a successful launch as the space launches today feature a satellite test mission for the nation’s growing internet constellation.
Launch
Agency
Country
Long March 2D — SatNet test satellite
| Agency | China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation |
| Rocket | Long March 2D |
| Payload | Communications satellite for internet constellation testing |
| Orbit | Low Earth Orbit |
| Launch Site | Launch Complex 3, Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People’s Republic of China |
| Time (UTC) | 06:35 |
| Status | Success — mission completed successfully |
This morning’s successful rocket launch marks another step forward for China’s ambitious SatNet constellation program. The mission carried test satellites designed to prove technology for a massive internet network that will compete with SpaceX’s Starlink system.
The Long March 2D rocket has now completed 98 successful launches out of 99 total attempts, making it one of China’s most reliable workhorse vehicles. This particular rocket variant has been launching satellites since 1992 and continues to serve as a backbone for Chinese space operations.
What to Watch For
- China’s SatNet constellation development as they work to challenge Western satellite internet services
- The Long March 2D’s impressive reliability record continuing with today’s success
- How this test mission data will influence future SatNet satellite designs
Today’s space launches today demonstrate China’s steady progress in building critical space infrastructure. As the week continues, expect more developments in the growing competition for global satellite internet coverage.
Sources & Credibility
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100/100
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98/100
Week in images: 20-24 April 2026
— ESA · Government Agency · Official European Space Agency — intergovernmental organization of 22 member states
Scoring factors: Intergovernmental body (+); Peer-reviewed science (+); Official mission data (+); Multi-nation oversight (+) -
86/100
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— Arstechnica · General News · Respected technology publication with dedicated space desk (Eric Berger)
Scoring factors: Pulitzer-adjacent journalism (+); Dedicated space reporter (+); Technical accuracy (+); Conde Nast owned (+)