On October 9, 2026, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation successfully launched Long March 12 carrying nine Low Earth Orbit communication satellites as part of the SatNet constellation deployment. This batch, designated SatNet LEO Group 27, marks another incremental step in China's ambitious megaconstellation project. The SatNet constellation, operated by China Satellite Network Group, is designed to provide global communications coverage and will eventually comprise 13,000 satellites when fully deployed, representing one of the largest satellite network initiatives underway.
The Long March 12 launch vehicle lifted off from the Wenchang Space Launch Site located on China's Hainan Island, a primary facility for China's civil space program. Wenchang has become instrumental in supporting frequent satellite constellation launches due to its coastal location and modern infrastructure capabilities.
The mission achieved full success, with all nine satellites reaching their designated orbits. This launch represents the continued acceleration of China's satellite internet infrastructure development, positioning the nation competitively alongside other global megaconstellation operators. The successful deployment underscores China's growing launch cadence and technological capability in executing complex orbital insertion missions.