China launches Long March 5 carrier rocket to deploy new satellite

In a significant milestone for China’s space program, the Long March 5 carrier rocket was successfully launched on the evening of October 23, 2025, from the Wenchang Space Launch Center in Hainan province. The mission, orchestrated by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp (CASC), deployed the Communications Technology Demonstrator 20 satellite into its designated orbit. This satellite, developed by the China Academy of Space Technology, aims to test advanced multi-band high-speed communication technologies. The Long March 5 rocket, designed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, featured an extended fairing measuring 18.5 meters, making it the tallest rocket ever produced in China. This launch marks China’s 66th space mission of the year and the 602nd flight of the Long March series, underscoring the nation’s growing prowess in space exploration and technology.