In a significant advancement for China’s space capabilities, the Smart Dragon 3 (SD-3) carrier rocket executed a successful maritime launch operation on Sunday, March 22, 2026, deploying the CentiSpace 02 satellite group into predetermined orbit. The launch occurred at 23:49 Beijing Time from waters adjacent to Haiyang City in Shandong Province, marking another milestone in China’s expanding space launch portfolio.
The offshore mission was administered by the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center, demonstrating China’s growing proficiency in flexible launch operations. Maritime launches offer distinct advantages over traditional land-based missions, including enhanced safety profiles, greater flexibility in selecting orbital inclinations, and reduced logistical constraints. The successful deployment underscores China’s rapid progress in commercial space capabilities and its strategic emphasis on developing responsive space infrastructure.
The CentiSpace 02 satellite constellation represents a significant enhancement to China’s space-based navigation and communication infrastructure. These satellites are designed to provide high-precision positioning services and facilitate Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity, supporting applications across transportation, agriculture, disaster mitigation, and urban planning sectors. The successful deployment strengthens China’s indigenous positioning capabilities and contributes to the global satellite infrastructure.
This mission represents the continuing evolution of China’s commercial space sector, which has seen rapid development in recent years. The Smart Dragon rocket series, developed by China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, is specifically designed for cost-effective, rapid-response missions capable of deploying multiple satellites simultaneously. The sea launch capability particularly enhances China’s competitive position in the global commercial satellite launch market, offering additional flexibility to international clients.
The achievement further solidifies China’s position as a leading spacefaring nation and demonstrates the country’s commitment to advancing its space technology capabilities through both government and commercial enterprises.