China Successfully Launches ChinaSat-10R from Xichang

China successfully launched the ChinaSat-10R (Zhongxing-10R) communications satellite into geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO) on February 22, 2025. The satellite, which replaces the aging ChinaSat-10, was carried by a Long March 3B rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center. This mission marks China’s continued efforts to enhance its satellite communication infrastructure, particularly in support of sectors like transportation, emergency response, energy, forestry, and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), China’s state-owned space contractor, confirmed the successful launch.

Key Highlights of the ChinaSat-10R Launch

Launch Details

• Date & Time: February 22, 2025, at 7:11 a.m. Eastern (1211 UTC).
• Launch Site: Xichang Satellite Launch Center, Southwest China.
• Rocket Used: Long March 3B.
• Orbit: Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
• Purpose: To replace the aging ChinaSat-10 satellite (launched in 2011).

ChinaSat-10R Satellite Overview

• Operator: China Satellite Communications Co., Ltd. (China Satcom), a CASC subsidiary.

Primary Functions

• Provide satellite communication services for transportation, emergency response, energy, forestry, and grasslands.
• Support countries along the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
• Enhance China’s geopolitical influence through satellite diplomacy.

Technical Details

• Based on a DFH satellite bus (specific model not disclosed).
• Exact transponder and frequency band details not revealed.

Significance of the Launch

• Strengthens China’s satellite infrastructure by replacing an older communication satellite.
• Enhances China’s geopolitical presence through Belt and Road satellite diplomacy.
• Supports essential communication services in multiple industries.

Long March 3B Rocket and Future Missions

• The Long March 3B remains China’s primary workhorse for geosynchronous orbit missions.
• It was previously used for major missions like,
• Chang’e-4 lunar far side landing mission (2018).
• Upcoming Tianwen-2 asteroid and comet exploration mission.
• Despite developing the Long March 7A (kerosene-liquid oxygen-based), China continues to rely on the hypergolic-fueled Long March 3B.

China’s 2025 Space Launch Plans

• This launch marked China’s 8th orbital mission of 2025.

China is targeting around 100 launches this year, including:

• Shenzhou-20 & Shenzhou-21 crewed missions to the Tiangong space station.
• Tianzhou cargo resupply spacecraft missions.
• New Long March and commercial rocket debuts.
• Potential reusable rockets from commercial space companies.

Upcoming Launches in February 2025

• February 25: Galactic Energy to launch a Ceres-1 solid rocket from Jiuquan.
• February 27: Long March 2C rocket launch from Jiuquan with an undisclosed payload.