China Achieves 15th Space Launch in 2025 with Tianlian II-04 Satellite Deployment

On March 26, 2025, China launched the Tianlian II-04 satellite aboard a Long March 3B rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center. This was the 15th space mission in 2025 and the 565th flight of the Long March rocket family. The Tianlian II-04 satellite will provide critical telemetry and data relay services, marking a significant advancement over the previous Tianlian I series.

On March 26, 2025, China successfully launched its 15th space mission of the year. A Long March 3B carrier rocket deployed the Tianlian II-04 satellite from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province at 11:55 PM. This launch also marked the 565th flight of the Long March rocket family, which has been a significant part of China’s space endeavors.

The Tianlian II-04 satellite, developed by the China Academy of Space Technology, is designated to provide essential telemetry, flight control, and data relay services for manned spacecraft, remote-sensing satellites, and the Tiangong space station. This mission adds to the advancements represented by China’s second-generation data relay satellites, following the initial launch of the Tianlian II series.

With the Tianlian I series, which consists of five satellites launched from April 2008 onward, serving vital functions, the Tianlian II satellites offer enhanced capabilities. These include greater carrying capacity, stronger performance, and extended operational lifespans compared to their predecessors. The launch underscores advancements in China’s satellite technology, essential for manned spaceflight and other space activities.

The Long March 3B rocket, primarily utilized for deploying satellites into geostationary transfer orbits, is one of China’s most operationally reliable launch vehicles. Developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, this rocket can transport up to 5.5 tons into geostationary transfer orbits and is also capable of sending spacecraft to various other orbits, including medium-Earth and lunar transfer orbits.

China’s 15th launch of 2025 not only highlights the country’s growing capabilities in space technology with the Tianlian II-04 satellite but also the significance of the Long March 3B rocket. This launch reinforces China’s commitment to expanding its space infrastructure and enhancing communication through the development of advanced data relay satellites. The continuous improvement from the Tianlian I to Tianlian II series marks a crucial step in supporting manned missions and broader satellite applications.

Original Source: www.ecns.cn