Full Breakdown
China's Shijian-28 Satellite Launch and Zhuque-3 Rocket Delay
12/1/2025, 12:50:39 PM
Successful Launch of Shijian-28
On November 30, 2025, China successfully launched the Shijian-28 satellite aboard a modified Long March 7A rocket from the Wenchang Satellite Launch Center in Hainan province. The launch occurred at 8:20 PM Beijing Time, marking the 611th mission for the Long March series and China's 77th orbital launch attempt of the year. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) confirmed that the satellite entered its designated orbit, although details regarding its specific functions remain undisclosed. Shijian satellites are typically utilized for scientific experiments, technology tests, and space environment monitoring.
Growing Launch Cadence and Technological Advancements
The Long March 7A rocket has demonstrated an increasing launch cadence, with five flights in 2025 alone. This uptick follows a failed debut in 2020 and reflects China's broader ambitions in space exploration. The Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site has achieved a milestone by conducting its 10th launch of the year, a first for the facility, which has been operational since 2016. The site is equipped to handle high-density launches and has implemented technological innovations to enhance its operational capabilities.
Delay of Zhuque-3 Rocket Test Flight
In contrast to the successful launch of Shijian-28, the debut flight of the Zhuque-3 rocket, developed by the commercial firm Landspace, has faced delays. Initially scheduled for a test launch on November 28, the attempt was postponed indefinitely due to unspecified reasons, despite earlier preparations for a launch window. The Zhuque-3 is designed to be a reusable medium-lift rocket, capable of carrying significant payloads to low Earth orbit. The delay highlights challenges within China's commercial space sector, which is undergoing rapid growth and regulatory changes.
Official Statements and Future Plans
The China National Space Administration (CNSA) recently established a new department to oversee the burgeoning commercial space sector, indicating a strategic move to integrate commercial activities into the national space development framework. This initiative follows the announcement of an action plan aimed at enhancing the capabilities of commercial space operations.
Criticism and Opposition
While the Shijian-28 launch was successful, the delays surrounding the Zhuque-3 rocket have raised concerns among industry observers regarding the operational readiness of China's commercial space initiatives. Critics argue that the postponements could hinder China's competitive edge in the global space market.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The key to achieving high-density launches lies in reducing rocket occupancy time on the pad, what we call the testing cycle,” — Wang Yuliang, Expert on Wenchang Launch Site
- “The Shijian program comprises a diverse series of satellites, typically used to conduct experiments, test new technologies and verify operational practices on orbit.” — CASC Official
What's Next
Looking ahead, CASC is preparing for additional launches, including a potential attempt to demonstrate the capabilities of the new reusable Long March 12A rocket in December. The ongoing developments in both governmental and commercial sectors signal a dynamic future for China's space exploration efforts.
