Experimental satellite enters orbit aboard Long March 4C from Sichuan

China successfully deployed an experimental satellite into orbit on Thursday afternoon, using a Long March 4C rocket launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province. The launch occurred at 5:35 pm local time, according to China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp. (CASC).

The satellite, designated Shiyan 28B01, was developed by the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites, part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Shanghai. It is tasked with conducting space environment measurements and testing next-generation space technologies.

The Long March 4C rocket, engineered by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology-also under CASC-has a liftoff mass of 250 metric tons. Designed primarily for sun-synchronous missions, the rocket is capable of transporting payloads up to 3 metric tons into a 700-kilometer orbit.

This launch marks the 37th orbital mission undertaken by China in 2025 and the 583rd overall flight for the Long March rocket series. The Innovation Academy has now built and launched a total of 174 satellites spanning applications in communications, navigation, remote sensing, and scientific research.