China launches remote-sensing satellite (1/6)

A Long March-4C carrier rocket carrying the Yaogan XX remote-sensing satellite blasts off from the launch pad at Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Jiuquan, northwest China's Gansu Province, Aug. 9, 2014. The satellite will be used to conduct scientific experiments, carry out land surveys, monitor crop yields and aid in preventing and reducing natural disasters. (Xinhua/Yang Shiyao)

China on Saturday sent a remote-sensing satellite into scheduled orbit.

The Yaogan XX satellite blasted off at 1:45 p.m. on the back of a Long March 4C carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the country's northwestern gobi desert, according to the center's statement.

The satellite will be used to conduct scientific experiments, carry out land surveys, monitor crop yields and aid in preventing and reducing natural disasters, the center said.

The launch marked the 190th mission for the nation's Long March rocket family.