China releases rocket rideshare schedule in 2023, 2024

China releases rocket rideshare schedule in 2023, 2024
by Staff Writers
Beijing (SPX) Apr 12, 2023

China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) has recently announced its rocket rideshare program schedule for the years 2023 and 2024. The program will consist of nine launch opportunities, with launch windows spanning from August 2023 to the fourth quarter of 2024.

According to CASC, the carrier rockets for the program will be developed by its subsidiaries, the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology and the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology. Launch services will be provided by the China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC).

CGWIC has already successfully completed three rideshare launches since 2021, using the Long March-6, Long March-8, and Long March-2D carrier rockets. The company has earned a reputation for its reliable launch services, having completed 79 commercial launches for 72 international and 74 domestic satellites since Long March launch vehicles entered the international market in 1990.

This announcement comes as the global aerospace industry is witnessing increasing demand for satellite launch services, particularly for small satellites. Rideshare missions have emerged as a cost-effective and efficient option to meet this demand, as they allow multiple satellites to be launched into space on a single rocket. This approach has gained significant traction in recent years, with many leading space companies offering rideshare services to cater to the growing demand.

CASC's announcement of its rideshare program is expected to further strengthen China's position in the global space industry. With its established capabilities in launch services, CASC is well-positioned to compete with other leading space companies in the world, such as SpaceX and Blue Origin.

In addition to its rideshare program, CASC has been making significant strides in the development of space technology. The company has been actively developing reusable launch vehicles, which have the potential to significantly reduce the cost of space access. It has also been working on the development of a crewed lunar landing mission, which is scheduled to take place in the mid-2030s.

Overall, CASC's announcement of its rideshare program is a significant development in the global space industry. It highlights China's increasing prominence in the sector and demonstrates the country's commitment to space exploration and technology development. With its established capabilities in launch services and ongoing efforts to develop cutting-edge space technology, CASC is well-positioned to play a leading role in shaping the future of space exploration.