Yaogan XVIII remote-sensing satellite launched in N China (1/2)

The Yaogan XVIII remote-sensing satellite is launched on the back of a Long March 2C carrier rocket from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Taiyuan, capital of north China's Shanxi Province, Oct. 29, 2013. Successfully launched on Tuesday, the satellite will be used to conduct scientific experiments, carry out land surveys, monitor crop yields and aid in preventing and reducing natural disasters. The launch marked the 183rd mission for the Long March rocket family. (Xinhua/Yan Yan)