LONG MARCH 8A SUCCESSFULLY LAUNCHES SATNET CONSTELLATION BATCH

China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation successfully launched the Long March 8A rocket on August 4, 2026, carrying nine Low Earth Orbit communications satellites for the SatNet constellation. Operated by the China Satellite Network Group, these satellites represent the latest deployment in an ambitious megaconstellation project designed to provide global telecommunications coverage. The SatNet constellation will ultimately comprise 13,000 satellites operating in low Earth orbit.

The Long March 8A lifted off from the Commercial Launch Complex 1 at Wenchang Space Launch Site in the People's Republic of China at 08:52 UTC. The Wenchang facility, located on the southern island of Hainan, serves as the primary launch site for China's heavy-lift and commercial launch operations, offering advantages including proximity to the equator and sea-level access for maritime recovery operations.

The mission achieved full success, deploying all nine SatNet satellites into their designated orbits. This launch marks another significant milestone in China's space ambitions, advancing its position in the global satellite communications market. With thousands of satellites already planned for deployment, the SatNet constellation represents one of the world's largest megaconstellation initiatives alongside competitors like Starlink and OneWeb.