China launches new cluster of internet satellites into orbit

China has successfully deployed a new cluster of internet satellites into space, continuing the expansion of its orbital communications network. The satellites were launched aboard a domestically developed Long March-8A carrier rocket early Friday.

Launch Details and Success

The rocket lifted off at 7:26 a.m. local time (2326 GMT Thursday) from the Hainan commercial spacecraft launch site in Wenchang, located in southern China's island province. According to state media, the launch successfully placed the payloads—identified as the 17th batch of low-Earth-orbit internet satellites—into their predetermined orbit. This mission contributes to China's growing satellite constellation designed to provide global broadband internet coverage.