Twin BeiDou Satellites Launched Atop a LM-3B/Yuanzheng 1

China launched the 33rd and 34th satellites of the BeiDou navigation system into their preset orbits using a LM-3B/Yuanzheng 1 carrier rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center at 09:48 Beijing time on July 29, 2018.

Two BeiDou satellites are putting into space by a LM-3B/Yuanzheng 1 launch vehiclePhoto: NAN Yong

This launch was the 5th mission for the global BeiDou system, sending the 9th and 10th satellites into orbits.Through targeted hardware changes and software upgrades, the performance of the satellite navigation signals is further improved, and the space environment adaptability, reliability and long-term service stability of the satellites’ in-orbit operation is improved. The satellites were developed by the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST).

8 BeiDou 3 satellites have been already in orbit, networking the simplest system of the BeiDou global navigation system. These last twin satellites enable the transition from the simplest system into the basic system, marking a new chapter for the global BeiDou system.The goal of providing navigation services for countries and regions along the Belt and Road is further developed.

This was the 281st flight of the LM series launch vehicle. The LM-3B/Yuanzheng 1 carrier rocket was developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT). (REN Yueming/China Space News)