In the landscape of China’s commercial space technology, the launch platform at the Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site stands out as a significant new addition. The platform is not only the first liquid-fuel universal launch site in the country, but it also represents a substantial technological breakthrough for the Hainan International Commercial Space Launch Company.
On June 6, after 585 days of intense construction, the launch platform was completed, and the full-system test launch of the first rocket began.
The construction of this platform began on October 30, 2022, and it employs an innovative “Three-Tier” rapid launch model, which significantly enhances launch efficiency and greatly reduces preparation time. Designed with a core diameter of up to 5 meters, it can accommodate over ten different rocket models, including those from Long March, Kuaizhou, and Jielong.
After 23 months of hard work, the site is now nearly complete and capable of dual-platform launches, laying a solid foundation for the success of the first launch mission later this year. This achievement not only represents a technological leap for the Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site but also signifies a boost in China’s competitiveness in the global commercial space industry.
Yang Tianliang, Party Secretary and Chairman of Hainan International Commercial Space Launch Co., Ltd. (Hainan ICSL), emphasized the unique importance of the platform as a model of productivity. Since the project’s inception, from design planning to construction, from equipment production to installation and debugging, the entire process adhered to a highly rigorous schedule, with project coordination being particularly challenging.
With the successful completion of the launch platform, the Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site will now follow its annual launch plan and transition to the full-system test phase for the CZ-8A and CZ-12 rockets, marking the start of this year’s first launch mission preparations.
“At this crucial moment, as we prepare for the first launch, our team is united in their efforts to achieve the scheduled goals on time, realizing the dream of space exploration and contributing to China’s century-long space ambitions,” said Yang Tianliang.
Background and Project Overview
Hainan is building a major commercial launch site alongside existing state-run facilities in the free trade zone, with several prominent investors and partners on board. The project, supported by high-level endorsements, is a significant endeavour with major implications for the commercial space industry.
A February 2023 report from Hainan News provided updates on the commercial launch site, revealing that there would be four launch pads: two for liquid-fuelled rockets (one for kerolox rockets and one for methalox rockets), and two for solid-fuelled rockets. The entire project represents an investment of approximately ¥4 billion (US $650 million).
Timeline and Capacity
Construction was expected to be completed by the end of 2023, with joint training and testing scheduled throughout Q1 2024. The first launch is anticipated later this year. Each launch pad will have a capacity of 16 launches per year. The site also includes facilities for rocket assembly and satellite manufacturing, aiming to integrate more of the industrial base into the launch site operations.
Future Prospects
The successful completion of the launch platform at Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site is a significant milestone. As the site moves into the full-system test phase, it promises to bolster China’s position in the global commercial space industry and pave the way for future advancements in space technology.
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