China's first commercial spacecraft launch site prepares for maiden launch
(ECNS) -- Hainan Commercial Spacecraft Launch Site, China’s first commercial spacecraft launch site, conducted a comprehensive system rehearsal on Sunday, to prepare for the maiden rocket launch mission scheduled for the second half of this year, according to the launching company Hainan International Commercial Aerospace Launch Co., Ltd. (HICAL).
Constructed in July 2022, the site features two primary launch pads. The No.1 pad is designed for the Long March-8, China’s new generation medium-lift carrier rocket while the No.2 pad is China’s first universal liquid launch pad, capable of supporting the launch needs of over ten different rocket models from various companies.
The rehearsal included a mock erection of a rocket at the No.2 pad, a water spray noise reduction test at the No.1 pad, and command exercises at the monitoring and control building.
"The primary goal is to test the coordination and compatibility of software and hardware interfaces between the new launch site and new rocket equipment, as well as the entire launch process," said Shou Junming, deputy chief engineer and director of the Launch Division at the HICAL.
He confirmed that all equipment installation and commissioning have been completed and that the site has officially entered the full system rehearsal stage for the first rocket launch. This simulated rehearsal is part of the overall rehearsal and meets the anticipated objectives.
Yang Tianliang, chairman of HICAL, emphasized that achieving the maiden launch on schedule is the current critical task.
Efforts are being intensified to accelerate the construction of the Sanping rocket factory and other related projects, and enhance coordination with counterparts to ensure comprehensive, system-wide, and full-process rehearsals, thereby thoroughly preparing for the inaugural launch, he added.