China launches experimental satellite Shijian-16

A Long March-4B carrier rocket carrying the Shijian-16 satellite blasts off from the launch pad at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Jiuquan, northwest China's Gansu Province, Oct. 25, 2013. The orbiter Shijian-16, used for conducting spacial environment detection and technological experiments, was launched successfully and went into scheduled orbit on Friday. (Xinhua/Yang Shiyao)

China successfully launched its Shijian-16 satellite for space research and experiments Friday, the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center said.

The satellite was boosted by a Long March-4B carrier rocket at 11:50, according to the center in northwest China.

Shijian-16 is used mainly for conducting space environment exploration and technological experiments. Friday's launch marked the 182nd launch boosted by a Long March rocket.