China successfully launched the Shijian-26 satellite into orbit on Thursday afternoon, further advancing the country’s capabilities in space-based information services and remote sensing technology.

The launch took place at 12:12 p.m. Beijing Time from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, using a Long March-4B carrier rocket. This mission marks the 579th flight of the Long March rocket series, underscoring China’s expanding and highly active space program.

Developed to enhance national infrastructure in critical areas such as land surveying and environmental monitoring, the Shijian-26 satellite is expected to play a key role in supporting China’s economic development and resource management.

Officials confirmed that the satellite successfully entered its designated orbit and will soon begin operations. While specific technical details remain limited, the satellite is designed to provide high-quality data for land resource surveys, ecological protection efforts, and potentially other civilian applications.

The mission highlights China’s growing emphasis on using space technology to support domestic priorities, including sustainable development, urban planning, and environmental governance.

More information on the satellite’s mission objectives and operational capabilities is expected to be released in the coming weeks. (ILKHA)