China launches Shi Jian 26 satellite into space: promoting ecology and economy from orbit

At 12:12 Beijing time on Thursday, the Long March 4B launch vehicle successfully carried the new Shijian-26 satellite into orbit from the Jiuquan spaceport in northwest China.

The new satellite will play a key role in land surface mapping, environmental management and other civil applications. It is to provide information services to support national economic development and efficient management of natural resources.

This is already 579th Long March series launch vehicle missionwhich is the backbone of China's space programme.

China is thus reaffirming its growing presence in space - not only in research, but also in practical applications for the development of a sustainable society.

CMG