New communication satellite launched to serve as platform for tech testing(1/3)

A Long March-3B rocket carrying a test satellite for communication technology blasts off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China's Sichuan Province, Jan. 23, 2025. (Photo: China News Service/Ma Yongtao)

The satellite will be used for satellite communications, radio and television and data transmission services. It will also serve as a platform for testing and validating related technologies.

This launch was the 558th mission of the Long March series carrier rockets.

A Long March-3B rocket carrying a test satellite for communication technology blasts off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China's Sichuan Province, Jan. 23, 2025. (Photo: China News Service/Ma Yongtao)

A Long March-3B rocket carrying a test satellite for communication technology blasts off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China's Sichuan Province, Jan. 23, 2025. (Photo: China News Service/Ma Yongtao)