
A LM-2C is launching two satellites for Pakistan
At Beijing time 11:56, on July 9,2018, a LM-2C/SMA launch vehicle was launched successfully sending the PRSS-1 and PakTES-1A satellites into their designated orbits. This is another significant space program between China and Pakistan after the successful in-orbit delivery of PakSat-1R Satellite, marking a step forward in China-Pakistan aerospace cooperation.
This mission was based on the PRSS-1 Satellite System Program Contract signed between China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC) under CASC, and the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission(SUPARCO) on April 20, 2016.
In accordance with the Contract, as the Prime Contractor, CGWIC in-orbit delivers to Pakistan a remote sensing satellite, a ground control system and a ground application system, and provides such technical support services as in-orbit tests, on-site support, training, launch insurance and so on.
The PRSS-1 satellite was designed and manufactured by the DFH Satellite Co. Ltd., China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) under CASC, based on CAST 2000 platform. The information the PRSS-1 satellite obtains will be extensively used in the fields of Pakistani territorial resource investigation, environmental protection, disaster monitoring and management, crop yield estimation and urban planning. It will play an important role in developing the national economy, improving the people’s livelihood, promoting social progress, as well as providing a space remote sensing information service for the establishment of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and the construction of the Belt and Road Initiative.
The PakTES-1A satellite was designed and developed by SUPARCO.
The LM-2C/SMA was designed and manufactured by China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT)under CASC, and this mission was the 3rd flight of LM-2C/SMA launch vehicle and the 279th launch for the Long March family.