China launches first reusable, returnable test satellite

China sent its first reusable and returnable test satellite, the Shijian-19, into space on Friday, using a Long March-2D rocket for the launch.

The rocket blasted off at 6:30 p.m. (Beijing Time) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China.

The Shijian-19 satellite has realized a number of technological breakthroughs, and will significantly enhance the technical level and application efficiency of China's returnable satellites.

It was the 537th flight mission of the Long March series rockets.

A Long March-2D rocket carrying China's first reusable and returnable test satellite, the Shijian-19, blasts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, Sept. 27, 2024. China sent its first reusable and returnable test satellite, the Shijian-19, into space on Friday, using a Long March-2D rocket for the launch. The rocket blasted off at 6:30 p.m. (Beijing Time) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. (Photo by Wang Jiangbo/Xinhua)