China’s Lijian-1 Rocket Prepares for Launch, Set to Carry 11 Satellites
China’s Lijian-1 Y6 carrier rocket has completed its final assembly test in Guangzhou, located in the Guangdong Province. The rocket, which will carry 11 satellites into space, is set for launch in late December this year, according to its developer, CAS Space. This is the first time the rocket has used a new self-developed initiator during its test, along with other innovative products that help reduce costs and shorten production time. These improvements make the rocket more suitable for mass production and regular launches. The final assembly included the attachment of a 3.35-meter wide fairing, which was closed, riveted, and sprayed during the process. The Lijian-1 series is known for its reliability and cost-effective performance, having successfully launched 57 satellites in five previous missions. CAS Space, a commercial space company under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, is part of China’s rapidly growing commercial space sector. In 2023, China conducted 67 rocket launches, with 13 coming from private companies, 12 of which were successful. The Chinese government has recognized the commercial space industry as a key part of its future economy, highlighting it as a strategic emerging sector in recent policy reports.
