LM-3B Successfully Launches ChinaSat-2D

At 01:11 Beijing time on January 11,2019, a LM-3B launch vehicle lifted off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center, putting the ChinaSat-2D satellite into its preset orbit. The solar array of the satellite deployed later successfully, marking the success of the first orbital launch of 2019 conducted by China.

ChinaSat-2D is a communications and broadcasting satellite owned by China Satcom. It was developed by the China Academy of Space Technology to provide broadcast, TV and broadband multi-media transmissions to broadcasting radio stations, TV stations, radio transmission stations and cable TV networks nationwide.

The LM-3B launch vehicle was developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology , which adopted the unified configuration of the LM-3A series carrier rocket with longer boosters and first stage. The launch capacity of the LM-3B is 5400 kg to GTO.

The mission was the 298th flight of the LM family launch vehicle. (DAI Zhenying/China Space News)

A LM-3B is putting ChinaSat-2D into orbit Photo: SHI Xiao