China launches new batch of low-orbit internet satellites

China deployed the 23rd batch of low-orbit satellites for its State-funded internet constellation on Tuesday afternoon.

A Long March 8A carrier rocket lifted off at 4:52 pm from a launch pad at the Hainan International Commercial Aerospace Launch Center, a coastal spaceport in Wenchang, Hainan province, successfully placing the satellites into their preset orbits, according to China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp, the nation's leading State-owned space contractor.

Developed by the China Academy of Space Technology, the satellites will join others already in orbit to form a space-based internet constellation similar to Starlink.

The Long March 8A, developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, stands 50.5 meters tall, with a liftoff weight of 371 metric tons and a liftoff thrust of about 480 tons.

Tuesday's mission was the 56th space launch China has carried out this year and the 661st flight of the Long March rocket family.