China launches new communication technology test satellite

陈小将

A Long March 3B carrier rocket carrying the Shiyan 22 satellite blasts off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Southwest China's Sichuan province, Dec 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

CHENGDU -- China on Tuesday sent a new communication technology test satellite into space from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in its southwestern Sichuan province.

The Shiyan 22 satellite was launched at 11:08 pm (Beijing Time) aboard a Long March 3B carrier rocket and entered its planned orbit as scheduled.

The satellite will primarily support services including satellite communication, data transmission, and radio and television broadcasting, as well as conducting relevant technical tests and validations.

This marked the 615th flight mission of China's Long March carrier rocket series.