Launching at 0539 GMT from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center, Southwest China, a Long March 2C (CZ-2C) light-launcher has carried four payloads to their circular 600 x 600 km low Earth orbit. The three primary payloads are the fourth group of Yaogan 30 spacecraft (Yaogan 30-04-A, -B and -C), which are thought to have functions comparable to that of the USA’s NOSS (Naval Ocean Surveillance System) satellites. The YAOGAN spacecraft were reportedly accompanied by another payload, Weina-1A Weixing – the name of which apparently translates to “micro-nano-1A satellite” – whose mission is currently unknown.
Comment by David Todd: Five launches in a single month is a new record for China. It is well on its way to its planned total of 40 launches in 2018.
The Long March 2C vehicle lifts-off carrying the four satellites to LEO. Courtesy of Xinhua
