-
Wenchang Space Launch Site [WSLS] | Hainan Commercial Spaceport [HCS] by Satori on 08 Feb, 2007 01:21
-
China is going to build a 4th satellite launch center. See here: http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-02/06/content_5705606.htm
-
#1 by sammie on 09 Feb, 2007 15:44
-
Im still a bit sceptic about this, I know that plans to build a spacecentre at Hainan for quite some time, but I considered those plans shelved now that China is not competiting anymore in the commercial GTO market. Hainan is not the most hospitable climate and there are quite some minority issues that could delay things. But we'll see what happens...
-
#2 by quicker625 on 12 Feb, 2007 14:18
-
I wish hainan will succeed~
-
#3 by edkyle99 on 12 Feb, 2007 16:53
-
Quote
sammie - 9/2/2007 10:44 AM
Im still a bit sceptic about this, I know that plans to build a spacecentre at Hainan for quite some time, but I considered those plans shelved now that China is not competiting anymore in the commercial GTO market. Hainan is not the most hospitable climate and there are quite some minority issues that could delay things. But we'll see what happens...
My guess is that Hainan could eventually replace XiChang.
China's GTO launchers are busy enough now launching that nation's own navsats, weathersats, comsats, etc. - and the launch rates are increasing. XiChang has proven to be a risky place from which to conduct launches. Some people believe that the world's worst space disaster happened there in 1996 when a Long March slammed into a populated village. China officially reported that dozens of civilians were killed or injured in the accident, but payload personnel who saw the scene thought that the toll must have been higher.
- Ed Kyle -
#4 by tappa on 24 Sep, 2007 08:40
-
More info here China plans fourth space launch centre
Why does China need 4 space launch sites?
-
#5 by Satori on 24 Sep, 2007 11:02
-
Quote
tappa - 24/9/2007 3:40 AM
More info here China plans fourth space launch centre
Why does China need 4 space launch sites?
Some answers in this thread 'Hainan - Wenchang, the 4th chinese launch center'! -
#6 by annu on 25 Sep, 2007 05:38
-
This is a different querry.
Does anyone here knows where is the Chinese Ground station for downloading Remote Sensing data? -
#7 by tappa on 25 Sep, 2007 09:42
-
Thanks Rui, sorry I missed the previous thread.
-
#8 by kraisee on 26 Sep, 2007 05:10
-
The coastal location near the city of Wenchang offers the option to be able to launch either Easterly or Polar launches out into considerable bodies of water - this is a major benefit regarding safety in case of accidents.
The interesting question I'd like an answer to is *what* exactly are they planning to launch from there? Existing launchers or something new?
Ross. -
#9 by MartianBase on 27 Sep, 2007 22:01
-
The island Hainan is nearer the equator, it would give payload boost and be better situated for geostationary launches.
Hainan is also where the US-spy plane incident took place and its monsoonal climate could become a problem for launches.
With over 1 Billion people one of China's big problems is over-population. With only a few million Hainan is one of China's least populated areas, so fallout from a failed launch will be much less of a problem.
Five launches have already taken place from this Hainan center, some analysts speculate China might be preparing the center for a future Heavy lift vehicle. Perhaps the first colonists on Mars will be speaking Chinese ? -
#10 by khallow on 14 Oct, 2007 19:42
-
I seem to recall that they were planning to launch the CZ-5 out of Wenchang. Ah, it was a Wikipedia blurb:Quote
Furthermore, it will be capable of launching the new heavy lift CZ-5 booster currently under development. Rail tracks of inland Space Centers will not allow the delivery of the new 5 meters core boosters, which Wenchang will, as it is served by a sea port.
So Wikipedia says, so it must be.
-
#11 by Satori on 29 Oct, 2007 16:58
-
#12 by edkyle99 on 31 Oct, 2007 18:34
-
Quote
khallow - 14/10/2007 2:42 PM
I seem to recall that they were planning to launch the CZ-5 out of Wenchang. Ah, it was a Wikipedia blurb:QuoteFurthermore, it will be capable of launching the new heavy lift CZ-5 booster currently under development. Rail tracks of inland Space Centers will not allow the delivery of the new 5 meters core boosters, which Wenchang will, as it is served by a sea port.
So Wikipedia says, so it must be.
Here it is from a more "official" source, Xinhua.
"The Long March 5 rockets will lift off from a new space launch center in Wenchang, in the southern island province of Hainan. The new center, the fourth in China, is expected to be completed in 2012 and formally put into use in 2013."
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-10/31/content_6984931.htm
- Ed Kyle -
#13 by CFE on 05 Nov, 2007 03:09
-
I'm wondering about what trajectories are available for high-inclination launches out of Wenchang. Ideally, you'd want to launch to the southwest, but that would take you over Southeast Asia (hmm, something sounds familiar about China dropping rockets over Vietnam.) You've got a clear shot to the southeast, though.
-
#14 by hesidu on 05 Nov, 2007 04:22
-
No, Vietnum is at southwest of Hainan,Wenchang. If Wenchang launch GTO or LEO satellites, it will shut to the southeast. So there will be no chance that the rockets will drop over Vietnam. For SSO satellites, they still will be launched in Taiyuan. Until now, there is no heavy SSO payloads for CZ-5.
-
#15 by Satori on 18 Nov, 2007 14:15
-
#16 by Satori on 26 Jan, 2008 13:23
-
#17 by Jirka Dlouhy on 26 Jan, 2008 19:45
-
I think, that Hainan space launch center is necessary, because CZ-5 launchers are strongly heavier than f.e. CZ-3B. Using of this launchers from XiChang is very dangerous.
-
#18 by Jirka Dlouhy on 27 Jan, 2008 20:06
-
CZ-5 Space Launch Vehicle
PROGRAMME
Designed and developed by China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT), the ChangZheng-5 (CZ-5, or Long March-5) is China's next generation space launch vehicle family, which would include a range of classes of launch vehicles for different missions. The CZ-5 project was announced in February 2001, with the initial development officially begining in 2002. China hopes that the CZ-5 would fulfill the requirement for large paylaod LEO and GEO missions in the next 20~30 years, with the first versions of the vehicle going into service by 2008. Chief Designer for the CZ-5 is Long Lehao.
The CZ-5 family: ( From left to right) 2.25m diameter launch vehicle; 3.35m diameter launch vehicle (without and with strap-on stages); 5.0m diameter launch vehicle (without and with strap-on stages).
According to the reports, the CZ-5 family will include three primary modular core stages of 2.25 m, 3.35 m and 5.0 m diameter. Boosters of various capabilities would be assembled from three modular core stages and strap-on stages. These would be powered by 1,200 kN thrust LOX/Kerosene engines or 500 kN thrust LOX/LH2 engines.
The CZ-5 series can deliver 1.5 t~25 t payload to LEO, or 1.5 t~14 t payload to GEO. This would replace the CZ-2, CZ-3, and CZ-4 series in service, as well as providing the new capabilities which are not possessed by the current CZ family. The heaviest configuration of the CZ-5 with 5.0 m diameter core stage and four 3.35 m diameter strap-on boosters will be able to send 25 t payload to the low earth orbit, being comparable to the ESA's Ariane 5.
-
#19 by Satori on 06 Mar, 2008 22:46
-
#20 by Satori on 19 Nov, 2008 16:15
-
From People's Daily, Construction of Wenchang launch center to begin.
-
#21 by Satori on 02 Mar, 2009 17:11
-
#22 by Satori on 11 Mar, 2009 14:15
-
From People's Daily, China's heavy-duty carrier rocket base to be finished in 2012.
-
#23 by wbhh on 27 Apr, 2009 23:13
-
national ZiWu project will share resource with Wenchang launch center
http://www.meridianproject.ac.cn/ -
#24 by Satori on 14 Sep, 2009 09:49
-
#25 by Satori on 15 Sep, 2009 09:44
-
#26 by Satori on 29 Oct, 2009 08:06
-
#27 by summit2 on 31 Mar, 2010 12:49
-
Following chinese articles, here is what I find with google hearth ... looks like a launch pad 2K ... maybe ....
-
#28 by Satori on 08 Jan, 2012 13:05
-
A new thread dedicated the Hainan Satellite Launch Center where we can have informations, pictures, maps and the history of this Chinese space complex.
-
#29 by input~2 on 08 Jan, 2012 14:07
-
AFAIU, the full name is Hainan Wenchang Satellite Launch Center, the short form is Wenchang Satellite Launch Center (WSLC)
-
#30 by Satori on 08 Jan, 2012 19:35
-
AFAIU, the full name is Hainan Wenchang Satellite Launch Center, the short form is Wenchang Satellite Launch Center (WSLC)
Ok, changing the threads title. -
#31 by Galactic Penguin SST on 06 Feb, 2012 01:29
-
Some latest photos by Worldview 1 taken on January 19th seems to show that WSLC will feature two VABs and two launch pads, although the resolution is too low to show the details...
-
#32 by ChileVerde on 06 Feb, 2012 15:53
-
Some latest photos by Worldview 1 taken on January 19th seems to show that WSLC will feature two VABs and two launch pads, although the resolution is too low to show the details...
Could you provide an English version of the captions, please? -
#33 by Galactic Penguin SST on 06 Feb, 2012 16:39
-
Some latest photos by Worldview 1 taken on January 19th seems to show that WSLC will feature two VABs and two launch pads, although the resolution is too low to show the details...
Could you provide an English version of the captions, please?
Here you go (note that the identifications are merely speculation between forum members on a Chinese aerospace forum).
-
#34 by Phillip Clark on 06 Feb, 2012 16:46
-
If there are indeed two CZ-5 VABs then I wonder how many vehicles each VAB could accomodate at once? Maybe four simultaneous assemblies?
-
#35 by Galactic Penguin SST on 06 Feb, 2012 16:55
-
If there are indeed two CZ-5 VABs then I wonder how many vehicles each VAB could accomodate at once? Maybe four simultaneous assemblies?
The big question is whether the CZ-7 series will be launched from WSLC? So far I have not seen a clear answer (even from Chinese soruces).
P.S. The Chinese have little problem with YF-100, their next generation kerolox engine (it's already doing gimballing and acceptance tests right now), but their "half-a-Vulcain" YF-77 engine for the CZ-5 is seriously behind schedule. This, plus that the Chinese has only just completed a prototype for the 5 meter diameter hydrogen fuel tank, means that first launch in 2015 will be hard to hit. And the CZ-7 does not seems to be a priority right now.... -
#36 by ChileVerde on 06 Feb, 2012 21:42
-
If there are indeed two CZ-5 VABs then I wonder how many vehicles each VAB could accomodate at once? Maybe four simultaneous assemblies?
The big question is whether the CZ-7 series will be launched from WSLC? So far I have not seen a clear answer (even from Chinese soruces).
P.S. The Chinese have little problem with YF-100, their next generation kerolox engine (it's already doing gimballing and acceptance tests right now), but their "half-a-Vulcain" YF-77 engine for the CZ-5 is seriously behind schedule. This, plus that the Chinese has only just completed a prototype for the 5 meter diameter hydrogen fuel tank, means that first launch in 2015 will be hard to hit. And the CZ-7 does not seems to be a priority right now....
Very interesting.
Just for the record, this showed up this morning:Quotehttp://english.cri.cn/6909/2012/02/05/2821s679220.htm
China's New Rockets Expected to Debut Within Five Years
2012-02-05 21:32:25
Xinhua
Web Editor: liuranran
China's new generations of the Long March rocket family, Long March-5, -6 and -7 are expected to make their maiden flights in the next five years, a rocket scientist [, Yu Menglun,] has said.
[snip]
Long March-5 rocket will be using non-toxic and pollution-free propellant. It has a maximum low Earth-orbit payload capacity of 25 tonnes and geosynchronous orbit payload capacity of 14 tonnes.
The Long March-6, which is designed to be a high-speed response launch vehicle, has a minimum of 1 tonne of sun-synchronous orbit payload, according to the scientist.
The Long March-7 has a maximum low Earth-orbit payload capacity of 13.5 tonnes and 5.5 tonnes of sun-synchronous orbit payload, he said.
[snip]
Currently, a fourth launch center is being built in Wenchang in the island province of Hainan. The Wenchang launch center is expected to be put into use within two or three years, according to Yu.
I would like to see some discussion of the requirements that led to the LM-6. To my eye it looks military, but that's probably just me. -
#37 by edkyle99 on 06 Feb, 2012 22:19
-
Some latest photos by Worldview 1 taken on January 19th seems to show that WSLC will feature two VABs and two launch pads, although the resolution is too low to show the details...
Could you provide an English version of the captions, please?
Here you go (note that the identifications are merely speculation between forum members on a Chinese aerospace forum).
I would not be ready to immediately interpret the image as showing sites for "two VABs". The diverging path might lead to a parking/service area for mobile launch platforms, for example. Or it might run to a payload preparation facility. Etc. Two completely separate vertical assembly buildings doesn't make sense to me, given the dual high-bay setup at Jiuquan. Also note that Jiuquan has separate road and rail rights of way running toward the pad areas from different directions.
- Ed Kyle -
#38 by ChileVerde on 07 Feb, 2012 13:28
-
I would not be ready to immediately interpret the image as showing sites for "two VABs". The diverging path might lead to a parking/service area for mobile launch platforms, for example. Or it might run to a payload preparation facility. Etc. Two completely separate vertical assembly buildings doesn't make sense to me, given the dual high-bay setup at Jiuquan. Also note that Jiuquan has separate road and rail rights of way running toward the pad areas from different directions.
- Ed Kyle
Does anybody know how much it would cost to buy the high-resolution image from DigitalGlobe? -
#39 by ChileVerde on 11 Feb, 2012 15:28
-
Some latest photos by Worldview 1 taken on January 19th seems to show that WSLC will feature two VABs and two launch pads, although the resolution is too low to show the details...
I thought I'd posted this earlier, but don't find it now. At any rate, it's another browse image taken on 5 June 2011. There seems to have been a fair amount of change between then and the Jan 19 image.
-
#40 by Galactic Penguin SST on 09 Jun, 2012 13:35
-
#41 by ChileVerde on 10 Jun, 2012 19:15
-
Recent photos of the construction site (credit: cruelworm@9ifly):
Translations, por favor. Also, the X= and Y= in the fourth picture look like they might some sort of geodetic coordinates; are they, and if so, what kind?
And most important of all, what are the good restaurants in the area? I don't rule out a trip to Hainan once the CZ-5 starts flying. -
#42 by vulture4 on 28 Jun, 2012 19:00
-
The single path splitting at both ends on the photo is very similar to the existing MLP track layout at Jiuquan's South Launch Site 1. At one end the VAB has two bays; at the other there are two launch pads. A simple and logical arrangement.
Translations (with kind help of Chinese friends)
VAB and launch pad photo labels, top to bottom:
1. Long March 5 assembly building 1
2. Long March 5 assembly building 2
3. Transfer route
4. Launch Complex 1
5. Launch Complex 2
Posts beside road:
Left Post: Right post:
"Restricted area - military base" "Army construction area"
Sign with numbers:
"Construction Company"
"078 Project number 802"
On plans: "Not for construction" or "Draft only"
-
#43 by ChileVerde on 05 Jul, 2012 18:15
-
1. Long March 5 assembly building 1
2. Long March 5 assembly building 2
3. Transfer route
4. Launch Complex 1
5. Launch Complex 2
A somewhat belated thanks for the translations. It seems to me that the most significant parts are the numbers "1" and "2". Are those signs that some sort of campaign requiring multiple -- or at least two -- launches is contemplated, rather than a series of essentially independent launches? -
#44 by byxiao on 06 Jul, 2012 00:59
-
It's a backup, in fact ,for every mission, they made two spacecrafts, when one failed, they use another as soon as possible, but after launching, launch pad normally need maintenance, so shift to another one.1. Long March 5 assembly building 1
2. Long March 5 assembly building 2
3. Transfer route
4. Launch Complex 1
5. Launch Complex 2
A somewhat belated thanks for the translations. It seems to me that the most significant parts are the numbers "1" and "2". Are those signs that some sort of campaign requiring multiple -- or at least two -- launches is contemplated, rather than a series of essentially independent launches? -
#45 by vulture4 on 06 Jul, 2012 03:27
-
Similarly most US pads were duplicates (Delta II, Titan, Shuttle, Atlas) .for backup, maintenance outages and for surge capacity. This changed with Falcon, Atlas V and Delta IV, partly because the on-pad processing and turnaround times and maintenance requirements are lower and partly because there is less need for very high launch rates. China has a backup pad for the LM-2F/G at Jiuquan but notably it was used only for unmanned launches and was apparently not man-rated.
It's a backup, in fact ,for every mission, they made two spacecrafts, when one failed, they use another as soon as possible, but after launching, launch pad normally need maintenance, so shift to another one.1. Long March 5 assembly building 1
2. Long March 5 assembly building 2
3. Transfer route
4. Launch Complex 1
5. Launch Complex 2
A somewhat belated thanks for the translations. It seems to me that the most significant parts are the numbers "1" and "2". Are those signs that some sort of campaign requiring multiple -- or at least two -- launches is contemplated, rather than a series of essentially independent launches? -
#46 by Galactic Penguin SST on 10 Jul, 2012 10:56
-
I've got some VERY interesting photos of the construction site at WSLC (from http://www.9ifly.cn/forum.php?mod=redirect&goto=findpost&ptid=38&pid=210181&fromuid=19646), which pretty much confirms the layout of the launch site:
- Two launch pads, apparently one for the CZ-5 and one for the CZ-7. Both pads features a fixed service tower (the one on the bigger pad reaches a height of 91 meters!) with rotating service platforms and a deep flame trench (22 meters deep for the bigger pad)
-TWO VIFs, one for the CZ-5 and one for the CZ-7. The two are linked together by a horizontal "low bay" for rocket storage.
-The spacecraft processing and launch control facilities are just west of the VIBs.
-Construction of the pads and facilities are in full swing, merely 3 years after the construction officially started (2009-09-14). The flame trench is more or less complete, and the service towers are being pieced together.
Photos 1-15 are from the CZ-5 pad site, photos 16-20 are from the CZ-7 pad site.
-
#47 by Galactic Penguin SST on 10 Jul, 2012 10:58
-
-
#48 by Galactic Penguin SST on 10 Jul, 2012 11:22
-
An annotated version of photo 6, which shows the facilities of the launch site.
Interestingly the two new tracking stations are located at Tongguling (15 km east of WSLC) and on the Paracel Islands (
) ...
-
#49 by Galactic Penguin SST on 10 Jul, 2012 14:35
-
Turns out that Bing Maps has clear aerial photos of the future launch site: go to 19°38′N 110°57′E, select aerial mode, and you can see the completed flame trench of the two future launch pads and the construction site of the VIF complex.
-
#50 by ChileVerde on 10 Jul, 2012 18:37
-
- Two launch pads, apparently one for the CZ-5 and one for the CZ-7. Both pads features a fixed service tower (the one on the bigger pad reaches a height of 91 meters!) with rotating service platforms and a deep flame trench (22 meters deep for the bigger pad)
Once more, thanks!
The CZ-5, according to the Source of All Wisdom, Wikipedia, will be only a bit over 60 meters tall. So is the pad being built with the idea of accommodating CZ-9 or other BFR, should they appear? Does the size of the flame trench provide any clues as to the maximum thrust at lift-off the pad can handle? -
#51 by vulture4 on 12 Jul, 2012 13:07
-
It looks like the mobile launch platform in the conceptual drawing on the poster runs on tires rather than rails; similar to LC-39 but an unusual choice for such a heavy load. Also the LV in the artist's concept on the display poster appears to be a CZ-7, the medium lift Kerosene/LOX rocket which will be more or less a direct replacement for the CZ-2 and its highly toxic UDMH/N2O2 propellants, and will presumably be the primary LV for the Shenzou.
So apparently there is one assembly building and one pad for the CZ-5 and one set for the CZ-7, and for the moment human launch will probably use only the CZ-7. Has anything been said about when it will be operational? -
#52 by ChileVerde on 23 Nov, 2012 19:20
-
I just checked out the DigitalGlobe browse images of the Wenchang center and found one taken by QuickBird 2 on 24 October 2012. At the browse resolution, not much change is seen at the launch site itself, but there seems to have been major road construction on the peninsula to the northeast. Perhaps associated with the intended tourist industry. Image attached, with another QB02 of 5 June 2011 for comparison.
-
#53 by russianhalo117 on 23 Nov, 2012 20:09
-
I heard that port is planned for the area. No mention was made though as to what entity plans to use it one its built.
I just checked out the DigitalGlobe browse images of the Wenchang center and found one taken by QuickBird 2 on 24 October 2012. At the browse resolution, not much change is seen at the launch site itself, but there seems to have been major road construction on the peninsula to the northeast. Perhaps associated with the intended tourist industry. Image attached, with another QB02 of 5 June 2011 for comparison. -
#54 by ChileVerde on 23 Nov, 2012 20:40
-
I heard that port is planned for the area. No mention was made though as to what entity plans to use it one its built.
As I understand it, the CZ-5 stages are supposed to be shipped by sea to the Wenchang center from the Tianjin rocket factory. -
#55 by Mighty-T on 24 Nov, 2012 18:56
-
... from the Tianjin rocket factory.
I'm not sure if it fits this thread, but do we have google maps coordinates for the Tianjin factory?
Thanks! -
#56 by ChileVerde on 24 Nov, 2012 19:50
-
... from the Tianjin rocket factory.
I'm not sure if it fits this thread, but do we have google maps coordinates for the Tianjin factory?
Thanks!
An interesting question. It's in the Binhai New Area, and there are several big buildings there that might be it. I'll see if it can be located more accurately. Somewhere around 39.0 N, 117.7 E, I'd guess.
-
#57 by limen4 on 02 Dec, 2012 11:17
-
China philatelic websites (see e.g. http://spaceship781.blog.163.com/blog/static/29293097201211261015956/) report that a special souvenir was issued to commemorate the launch of the first rocket carrier ship named Yuanwang-21. The ceremony was held at the Shanghai Jiangnan Shipyard on Changxing Island.
-
#58 by 20350902 on 09 Jan, 2013 12:35
-
Vehicle Assembly Building in Wenchang
-
#59 by ChileVerde on 16 Jan, 2013 15:38
-
Vehicle Assembly Building in Wenchang
I didn't see those pictures until just now; thanks a lot for posting them. It would appear that the launch center is on its way to meet the 2014 IOC date. -
#60 by ChileVerde on 24 Jan, 2013 18:09
-
... from the Tianjin rocket factory.
I'm not sure if it fits this thread, but do we have google maps coordinates for the Tianjin factory?
Thanks!
An interesting question. It's in the Binhai New Area, and there are several big buildings there that might be it. I'll see if it can be located more accurately. Somewhere around 39.0 N, 117.7 E, I'd guess.
After initial failure and holiday interruptions, I remembered to return to this question. After an inordinate amount of googling, it turned up that the New/Next Generation Rocket Industrial Base (or several other similar names) is in an economic development area of Tianjin called TEDA West.QuoteRepresented by "new generation space vehicle", Aviation industry is located in the northwest group of TEDA West, where to the east is Zhongxin Zhuang Road, to the west is Hangang Road, to the north is Yangbei Road, and to the south is Nanbei Avenue and Jigang Railway. The planned construction area of the project is about 500,000 sq.m.
Wikimapia kindly provides a map showing TEDA West and, going there, there's a recently constructed group of large industrial buildings at 39.072 N, 117.513 E.
I'm fairly sure this is the CZ-5 rocket factory, but could certainly do with a sanity check should any of the readership wish to provide one.
BTW, different sources give areas of the project ranging from 0.5 to 2.0 square kilometers.
Edit: Tidied up TEDA_West image
-
#61 by Liss on 24 Jan, 2013 20:21
-
After initial failure and holiday interruptions, I remembered to return to this question. After an inordinate amount of googling, it turned up that the New/Next Generation Rocket Industrial Base (or several other similar names) is in an economic development area of Tianjin called TEDA West.
QuoteRepresented by "new generation space vehicle", Aviation industry is located in the northwest group of TEDA West, where to the east is Zhongxin Zhuang Road, to the west is Hangang Road, to the north is Yangbei Road, and to the south is Nanbei Avenue and Jigang Railway. The planned construction area of the project is about 500,000 sq.m.
Wikimapia kindly provides a map showing TEDA West and, going there, there's a recently constructed group of large industrial buildings at 39.072 N, 117.513 E.
I'm fairly sure this is the CZ-5 rocket factory, but could certainly do with a sanity check should any of the readership wish to provide one.
Wikimapia says that the large industrial complex at 39.0774 N 117.5134 is the Great Wall Automotive company Tianjing Subsidiary, and the track in the eastern part of it seems to be nice for car races.4: The vertical acoustic vibration tower at Tianjin
I believe Google Earth shows this under construction in August 2011 at 39.1029 N, 117.5011 E.
This is much more close in my opinion. In maps.google.com and panoramio there are several images for the area, some described as just Tianjin Binhai New Area and others as China Aerospace Long March rocket manufacturing base:
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/26160663
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/26160715
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/26160693
-
#62 by ChileVerde on 24 Jan, 2013 22:27
-
Quote
I believe Google Earth shows this under construction in August 2011 at 39.1029 N, 117.5011 E.
This is much more close in my opinion. In maps.google.com and panoramio there are several images for the area, some described as just Tianjin Binhai New Area and others as China Aerospace Long March rocket manufacturing base:
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/26160663
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/26160715
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/26160693
Thanks indeed -- sanity checks are always worth having. So it's just the part north of the automotive complex where the rockets are being built? (See attachment.)
Edit: Though not totally unrelated to the Wenchang Satellite Launch Center, this is starting to look like it needs a separate thread. If The Powers That Moderate could do that, it might be a good idea.
-
#63 by ChileVerde on 30 Jan, 2013 14:41
-
Looks like everything is on schedule for starting CZ-5 operations next year.Quotehttp://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2013-01/30/content_16185756.htm
Satellite center to put Wenchang on the map
Updated: 2013-01-30 04:12
By HUANG YIMING and WANG QIAN in Haikou ( China Daily)
The construction of the Wenchang Satellite Launch Center in Hainan province, from where China will launch new-generation carrier rockets and future space station modules, is expected to be completed in June, the province's economic planner said.
By the end of this year, the launch center, the fourth in China, will be ready for launching carrier rockets, according to a report released by the Hainan Development and Reform Commission during the ongoing annual session of the provincial people's congress.
Hainan plans to invest nearly 3.3 billion yuan ($530 million) this year into construction of the center and relevant facilities, including a space theme park and nearby infrastructure, the report said.
Of the 3.3 billion yuan, 2.5 billion will be used for the center's construction, the report said.
Pei Chengmin, Party chief of Wenchang, said the center will host its first launch in 2014.
The center will include a launch pad, a rocket assembly plant and a command center.
The Long March-5 launch vehicle designed for transporting heavyweight satellites and space station modules, as well as the Long March-7 rocket designed for launching cargo spacecraft, are expected to blast off from the center in 2014, the Beijing Morning Post quoted Liang Xiaohong, deputy director of the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology on Saturday during the annual session of the Beijing municipal people's congress.
<snip>
Besides the launch center, a space theme park and a space research center are also under construction, according to Pei.
He said the construction of the first phase of the park is likely to be finished in 2014, about the same time the center sees its first launch.
The park will give visitors a tram tour of rocket launch pads and offer space-travel attractions, such as a moon-themed train ride and cosmos-themed roller coaster. The park's interplanetary section will be divided into four themed areas — Earth, Lunar, Solar and Martian.
<snip> -
#64 by 20350902 on 04 Feb, 2013 08:54
-
-
#65 by limen4 on 16 Feb, 2013 17:54
-
China philatelic websites (see e.g. http://spaceship781.blog.163.com/blog/static/29293097201211261015956/) report that a special souvenir was issued to commemorate the launch of the first rocket carrier ship named Yuanwang-21. The ceremony was held at the Shanghai Jiangnan Shipyard on Changxing Island.
... and the second WSLC supply vessel Yuanwang-22 followed on January 24th.
-
#66 by Liss on 03 Mar, 2013 11:29
-
http://www.ecns.cn/2013/03-03/52238.shtmlQuote
China's fourth launch center, located in tropical island province of Hainan, will be ready for space launch in two years, said a member of China's top political advisory body.
The launch center, which has been under construction since 2009, will be able to launch space station capsules and cargo ships, Zhou Jianping, designer-in-chief of China's manned space program, told Xinhua on Saturday.
The carrier rockets to be launched in the Hainan center include Long March-7 and Long March-5, said Zhou, a member of the National Committee of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC)...
The center will be mainly used for launching synchronous satellites, heavy satellites, large space stations, and deep space probe satellites. It is designed to handle up to 10-12 rocket launches a year. -
#67 by ChileVerde on 03 Mar, 2013 15:29
-
http://www.ecns.cn/2013/03-03/52238.shtml
QuoteChina's fourth launch center, located in tropical island province of Hainan, will be ready for space launch in two years, said a member of China's top political advisory body.
The launch center, which has been under construction since 2009, will be able to launch space station capsules and cargo ships, Zhou Jianping, designer-in-chief of China's manned space program, told Xinhua on Saturday.
The carrier rockets to be launched in the Hainan center include Long March-7 and Long March-5, said Zhou, a member of the National Committee of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC)...
The center will be mainly used for launching synchronous satellites, heavy satellites, large space stations, and deep space probe satellites. It is designed to handle up to 10-12 rocket launches a year.
Probably best not to make too much of the single occurrence of a word, but it's interesting that "capsules" is used. Can anybody find the Chinese version of the text and comment on that? -
#68 by Galactic Penguin SST on 08 Apr, 2013 09:09
-
Lots of recent photos (since January) of the launch site under construction - seems to be right on schedule to support a launch next year....
(all photos collected by various forum members at http://bbs.9ifly.cn/thread-38-32-1.html)
-
#69 by Galactic Penguin SST on 08 Apr, 2013 09:13
-
-
#70 by Galactic Penguin SST on 08 Apr, 2013 09:14
-
-
#71 by Galactic Penguin SST on 08 Apr, 2013 09:14
-
-
#72 by ChileVerde on 08 Apr, 2013 13:50
-
Lots of recent photos (since January) of the launch site under construction - seems to be right on schedule to support a launch next year....
Which will presumably be a CZ-7, the CZ-5 having slipped into 2015 because of manufacturing difficulties, no? -
#73 by Galactic Penguin SST on 08 Apr, 2013 16:55
-
Lots of recent photos (since January) of the launch site under construction - seems to be right on schedule to support a launch next year....
Which will presumably be a CZ-7, the CZ-5 having slipped into 2015 because of manufacturing difficulties, no?
That's right, late 2014 is the target for CZ-7's first flight, and Wenchang is the launch site. See my post in the CZ-NGLV thread. -
#74 by ChileVerde on 08 Apr, 2013 17:33
-
That's right, late 2014 is the target for CZ-7's first flight, and Wenchang is the launch site. See my post in the CZ-NGLV thread.
Thank you. I often have trouble keeping track of threads.
-
#75 by Galactic Penguin SST on 26 May, 2013 10:33
-
The best model of the launch site I have seen so far:
-
#76 by beidou on 09 Jul, 2013 17:45
-
Some recent pictures (with high resolution) of the construction sites.
http://bbs.9ifly.cn/forum.php?mod=redirect&goto=findpost&ptid=38&pid=257476&fromuid=24484 -
#77 by ChileVerde on 09 Jul, 2013 18:05
-
Some recent pictures (with high resolution) of the construction sites.
http://bbs.9ifly.cn/forum.php?mod=redirect&goto=findpost&ptid=38&pid=257476&fromuid=24484
Sorry, I don't see the pictures there and, much to my regret, I failed to learn to read Chinese. Is there something to click to see the photos? -
#78 by beidou on 09 Jul, 2013 20:20
-
Some recent pictures (with high resolution) of the construction sites.
http://bbs.9ifly.cn/forum.php?mod=redirect&goto=findpost&ptid=38&pid=257476&fromuid=24484
Sorry, I don't see the pictures there and, much to my regret, I failed to learn to read Chinese. Is there something to click to see the photos?
The pictures are attached here. I used Google Translate to do all the dirty translation job.
-
#79 by Galactic Penguin SST on 09 Jul, 2013 23:35
-
I think I will like the scenery at this spaceport very much when it opens.
(the building in the first few photos is the LCC)
-
#80 by beidou on 11 Jul, 2013 20:31
-
#81 by Galactic Penguin SST on 28 Oct, 2013 13:10
-
LOTS of new photos of WSLC available since my last post (thanks to member hccccf at the 9ifly Chinese spaceflight and aviation forum for collecting them from various sources!). First up is a panorama of the launch center from the top of the pad 1 service tower:
-
#82 by Galactic Penguin SST on 28 Oct, 2013 13:14
-
Various photos from the construction site:
-
#83 by Galactic Penguin SST on 28 Oct, 2013 13:16
-
-
#84 by Galactic Penguin SST on 28 Oct, 2013 13:19
-
From another (local) member at the forum, this is how the roads and bridges around the spaceport looks like (the bridge crosses through Wenchang port):
-
#85 by Galactic Penguin SST on 28 Oct, 2013 13:26
-
The service towers at both pads and the twin vertical integration bays are now almost complete. The launch site looks more and more like a Chinese version of Kourou......
-
#86 by Galactic Penguin SST on 28 Oct, 2013 13:27
-
WSLC_92 shows the nearby radar tracking station.
-
#87 by Galactic Penguin SST on 28 Oct, 2013 13:31
-
And here's the inside of the rocket processing facilities.
-
#88 by Galactic Penguin SST on 28 Oct, 2013 13:36
-
Last but not least, here's the current construction progress of the various pads, VIFs, LCCs, spacecraft processing facilities and even the future downrange tracking station at the Paracel Islands (WSLC_107).
If you want an overview of how WSLC looks like today, check out the location (19 deg. 38' N, 110 deg. 57' E) in Google Earth and use the historical imagery function to find satellite imagery taken on July 14 of this year!
-
#89 by fatjohn1408 on 12 Nov, 2013 12:25
-
My guess is that Hainan could eventually replace XiChang.
China's GTO launchers are busy enough now launching that nation's own navsats, weathersats, comsats, etc. - and the launch rates are increasing. XiChang has proven to be a risky place from which to conduct launches. Some people believe that the world's worst space disaster happened there in 1996 when a Long March slammed into a populated village. China officially reported that dozens of civilians were killed or injured in the accident, but payload personnel who saw the scene thought that the toll must have been higher.
- Ed Kyle
Well, that brings the minimum death toll to 24 (dozens) even by official reportings. Which disaster would have been worse than that? -
#90 by Kryten on 12 Nov, 2013 13:21
-
The Nedelin incident killed at least 70 people, but it was a missile test, so it being a 'space disaster' is pretty arguable.
-
#91 by Satori on 06 May, 2014 16:29
-
#92 by ximig on 07 May, 2014 07:13
-
Coordination Meeting of first launch of CZ-7 & Cargo Ship from W.C. Site
See
http://news.ifeng.com/a/20140507/40188526_0.shtml
waiting and see what will happens
-
#93 by heinkel174 on 08 May, 2014 05:47
-
Well, that brings the minimum death toll to 24 (dozens) even by official reportings. Which disaster would have been worse than that?
The official figure is 6 dead and 57 injured. There’s an excellent article on Space Review discussing the accident.
http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2323/1
-
#94 by luhai167 on 09 May, 2014 09:39
-
#95 by JimO on 10 May, 2014 00:32
-
The official figure is 6 dead and 57 injured. ...
While at Baikonur in 1996 on a launch client inspection I talked with an American who was at the explosion and his impression was of massive destruction of non-evacuated areas.
Re 'worst', don't overlook 50 dead at Plesetsk in 1980. The argument of the blame for it is, unbelievably, still going on. -
#96 by beidou on 14 Jul, 2014 16:06
-
The two launch sites have been officially handed over to the launch center operator - Xi'chang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC). source: http://bbs.9ifly.cn/forum.php?mod=redirect&goto=findpost&ptid=13158&pid=311757&fromuid=24484
-
#97 by russianhalo117 on 14 Jul, 2014 16:10
-
Last but not least, here's the current construction progress of the various pads, VIFs, LCCs, spacecraft processing facilities and even the future downrange tracking station at the Paracel Islands (WSLC_107).
Do we have any updated pictures for WSLC complexes??
If you want an overview of how WSLC looks like today, check out the location (19 deg. 38' N, 110 deg. 57' E) in Google Earth and use the historical imagery function to find satellite imagery taken on July 14 of this year! -
#98 by Galactic Penguin SST on 16 Jul, 2014 08:34
-
There are lots of them since last time and updates on ground infrastructure info too - I was going to make an update post for the past few months but never quite find enough power to do so. Let me see what I can do today....Last but not least, here's the current construction progress of the various pads, VIFs, LCCs, spacecraft processing facilities and even the future downrange tracking station at the Paracel Islands (WSLC_107).
Do we have any updated pictures for WSLC complexes??
If you want an overview of how WSLC looks like today, check out the location (19 deg. 38' N, 110 deg. 57' E) in Google Earth and use the historical imagery function to find satellite imagery taken on July 14 of this year!
-
#99 by Kryten on 24 Jul, 2014 00:49
-
Do we have any reports on damage, if any, from typhoon Rammasun?
-
#100 by limen4 on 26 Jul, 2014 15:17
-
Do we have any reports on damage, if any, from typhoon Rammasun?
Some images of the damaged liquid hydrogen manufacturing plant were released here http://www.sdy-cn.com/newInfo.asp?id=408
-
#101 by Nighthawk on 29 Jul, 2014 10:16
-
well actually the report (in Chinese) said that the liquid hydrogen device endured the blast while the damaged ones are only some temporary houses or structures...Do we have any reports on damage, if any, from typhoon Rammasun?
Some images of the damaged liquid hydrogen manufacturing plant were released here http://www.sdy-cn.com/newInfo.asp?id=408 -
#102 by Websorber on 13 Sep, 2014 06:26
-
China completes construction of advanced space launch facility
http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/China_completes_construction_of_advanced_space_launch_facility_999.html
-
#103 by Lars-J on 30 Sep, 2014 21:33
-
New images (well taken 2 weeks ago) of Wenchang:
(spotted here: http://www.sinodefenceforum.com/strategic-defense/chinas-space-program-news-views-189-1143.html )
-
#104 by anik on 09 Nov, 2014 07:55
-
Satellite photo of Wenchang facilities made on July 25, 2014.
-
#105 by beidou on 14 Nov, 2014 17:49
-
The official Chinese name is "文昌航天发射中心", corresponding English translation should be "Wenchang Space Launch Center", not Wenchang Satellite Launch Center.
-
#106 by Stan Black on 14 Nov, 2014 17:59
-
The official Chinese name is "文昌航天发射中心", corresponding English translation should be "Wenchang Space Launch Center", not Wenchang Satellite Launch Center.
Centre? -
#107 by beidou on 14 Nov, 2014 18:25
-
No, Center, not Centre.The official Chinese name is "文昌航天发射中心", corresponding English translation should be "Wenchang Space Launch Center", not Wenchang Satellite Launch Center.
Centre? -
#108 by asdert on 17 Nov, 2014 09:19
-
Only if American English is correct and English English is not.
-
#109 by Galactic Penguin SST on 17 Nov, 2014 09:20
-
The official Chinese name is "文昌航天发射中心", corresponding English translation should be "Wenchang Space Launch Center", not Wenchang Satellite Launch Center.
I'm pretty sure that's not the name used by official Chinese media.....
-
#110 by limen4 on 09 Dec, 2014 20:24
-
This image from the CBERS-4 launch video indicates, that the Xisha Islands (Paracel Islands) Satellite Control Station, which was built in the wake of the WSLC construction is already on duty and supports (together with the Sanya Satellite Control Station) the CBERS-4 mission.
-
#111 by Phillip Clark on 06 Apr, 2015 08:31
-
Does anyone know the co-ordinates of the actual and planned launch pads, please?
-
#112 by Liss on 06 Apr, 2015 17:40
-
Does anyone know the co-ordinates of the actual and planned launch pads, please?
Wikimapia gives answers for the two existing pads within the address:
http://wikimapia.org/#lang=en&lat=19.614596&lon=110.951164&z=16&m=b
http://wikimapia.org/#lang=en&lat=19.618497&lon=110.955412&z=16&m=b
-
#113 by anik on 03 Sep, 2015 16:42
-
Photos made on April 2, 2015.
-
#114 by beidou on 13 Feb, 2016 09:11
-
#115 by Galactic Penguin SST on 16 Jun, 2016 14:34
-
Well, we are suddenly probably below 10 days to first flight from there. Time for me to hurry up and make a short brief look back at the road to first flight that I have promised some time ago but never had the time to do so!
So firstly, I found out that WSLC might just have un-throned the Cape as the launch site with the best accommodation worldwide. It turns out that there's a 5-star Hilton hotel merely 5 kilometers/3 miles from the two pads with a clear line of sight! That's as close as the Cape's pads from the NASA causeway!
-
#116 by yaohua2000 on 18 Jun, 2016 17:15
-
Well, we are suddenly probably below 10 days to first flight from there. Time for me to hurry up and make a short brief look back at the road to first flight that I have promised some time ago but never had the time to do so!
So firstly, I found out that WSLC might just have un-throned the Cape as the launch site with the best accommodation worldwide. It turns out that there's a 5-star Hilton hotel merely 5 kilometers/3 miles from the two pads with a clear line of sight! That's as close as the Cape's pads from the NASA causeway!
Exactly. Here is my booking.
-
#117 by Nordren on 18 Jun, 2016 17:17
-
Exactly. Here is my booking.
I hope you'll be providing a live stream of the launch
-
#118 by baldusi on 18 Jun, 2016 18:40
-
Exactly. Here is my booking.
You know that means you have volunteered for being the online NSF representative, right?
-
#119 by linxiaoyi on 19 Jun, 2016 11:48
-
Well, we are suddenly probably below 10 days to first flight from there. Time for me to hurry up and make a short brief look back at the road to first flight that I have promised some time ago but never had the time to do so!
So firstly, I found out that WSLC might just have un-throned the Cape as the launch site with the best accommodation worldwide. It turns out that there's a 5-star Hilton hotel merely 5 kilometers/3 miles from the two pads with a clear line of sight! That's as close as the Cape's pads from the NASA causeway!
Exactly. Here is my booking.
If only you can provide a stream on douyutv or bilibili -
#120 by the_other_Doug on 19 Jun, 2016 18:07
-
The location of the launch center so close to a tourist resort sounds like both a really great idea, and a "didn't they learn their lesson" thing. I still recall that one Long March launch failure several years ago that destroyed a large block of flats -- while the residents were inside.
I know that block of flats was closer to the launch pad than this Hilton appears to be, but not that much. I'd go to watch a launch, but there would be a touch of apprehension to it... -
#121 by baldusi on 20 Jun, 2016 00:46
-
If they now have a working FTS that should be no problem, specially if it is south-west of the pad.
-
#122 by Phillip Clark on 11 Aug, 2016 17:58
-
Does anyone know the co-ordinates of the actual and planned launch pads, please?
Wikimapia gives answers for the two existing pads within the address:
http://wikimapia.org/#lang=en&lat=19.614596&lon=110.951164&z=16&m=b
http://wikimapia.org/#lang=en&lat=19.618497&lon=110.955412&z=16&m=b
Do we know which is Pad 101 and which is 201 please? -
#123 by Galactic Penguin SST on 12 Aug, 2016 01:20
-
Does anyone know the co-ordinates of the actual and planned launch pads, please?
Wikimapia gives answers for the two existing pads within the address:
http://wikimapia.org/#lang=en&lat=19.614596&lon=110.951164&z=16&m=b
http://wikimapia.org/#lang=en&lat=19.618497&lon=110.955412&z=16&m=b
Do we know which is Pad 101 and which is 201 please?
101 for CZ-5 is straight south of the VIB and 201 for CZ-7 is to the northeast. -
#124 by GELORD on 13 Oct, 2019 06:43
-
China's rocket-carrying ships depart for transportation mission
NANJING, Oct. 12 (Xinhua) -- China's two rocket-carrying ships departed Saturday from a port in east China's Jiangsu Province on a transportation mission.
The two Yuanwang ships are China's first ships made exclusively to carry rockets. With a length of 130 meters, a width of 19 meters and a height of 37 meters, the ships have a displacement of 9,000 tonnes.
Each ship is equipped with two 120-tonne cranes that can hoist large rockets. The ship is also installed with a marine environment protection system and anti-vibration equipment.
The two ships have conducted missions including the maritime transport of the Long March-7 and the Long March-5 carrier rockets. Each ship has sailed more than 40,000 nautical miles and has successfully completed more than 10 maritime transport missions.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-10-12 21:40:08|Editor: ZX
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-10/12/c_138466946.htm
-
#125 by vulture4 on 14 Oct, 2019 15:42
-
If they now have a working FTS that should be no problem, specially if it is south-west of the pad.
Although there are no hotels quite that close at KSC there are large crowds of visitors at about that distance. If there is a capable range safety system, five kilometers provides reasonable clearance. Conversely, if there were no way to disable a launch vehicle that goes off course, a hundred kilometers might not be enough. The use of kerosene/LOX/H2 propellants in the CZ-5 and CZ-7 is a major factor, the combustion products from the UDMH/N2O4 used by earlier Chinese launch vehicles can drift downwind and present a hazard kilometers away. -
#126 by Galactic Penguin SST on 15 Apr, 2022 13:11
-
Not sure where to place these, but Chinese president Xi Jinping made a visit to Wenchang on April 12
BTW the official name of the facility is Wenchang Space Launch Site (WSLS) - not "Center" as administratively it was managed as a sub-facility of Xichang Satellite Launch Center.
-
#127 by mikezang on 16 Apr, 2022 06:28
-
金紫荆-齐鲁农业卫星星座首星7月发射Quote
The first star of the Golden Bauhinia-Qilu Agricultural Satellite Constellation will be launched in July
Jinzjijing-Qilu-1 01-0? will be launched by CZ-6 in end of 2022, and
According to the plan, the first batch of satellites (currently planned to be 6 satellites) of the 8 business satellites will be launched on the Long March 6 rocket of Great Wall Company and the Ceres-1 rocket of Galaxy Power Company by the end of this year.
Jinzjijing-Qilu-1 0?-06 will be launched by Gushenxing-1 Y4 in end of 2022. -
#128 by Satori on 06 Jul, 2022 09:53
-
Construction of China's first commercial spacecraft launch site starts in Hainan
https://english.news.cn/20220706/358f8046503a431ca7697838e065bb10/c.html -
#129 by FutureSpaceTourist on 29 Jan, 2023 07:09
-
https://twitter.com/cnsawatcher/status/1619580872268648449Quote
Hainan commercial rocket launch pad construction has began. The first commercial rocket launch from Hainan will be in 2024. Source: https://buff.ly/3XKTlLX
-
#130 by FutureSpaceTourist on 03 Feb, 2023 15:11
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1621541377107726336Quote
The launch tower structure of Wenchang commercial pad#1 will be finished this June and the construction of the pad will be completed by the end of the year.
The first launch from this new pad will likely be Long March 8 👇 in 2024 -
#131 by FutureSpaceTourist on 27 Feb, 2023 06:54
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1630111277048803328Quote
Latest footage of construction at Hainan Wenchang commercial launch pad #1.
by June: completing the tower
by September: completing the rotary platforms
by the end of the year: completing the whole structure and ready for rehearsals
twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1630111537875816453QuoteRocket assembly building under construction too
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1630111899965878272QuoteSatellite manufacturing and testing facility as well
-
#132 by FutureSpaceTourist on 16 Mar, 2023 06:48
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1636271848550977536Quote
The new Hainan Wenchang commercial launch pad #1 will use an aboveground deflector instead of a trench to redirect the flame. A 1:10 scaled model has been built in Changzhi, Shanxi Province, for tests
-
#133 by FutureSpaceTourist on 21 Mar, 2023 06:42
-
-
#134 by FutureSpaceTourist on 03 May, 2023 07:14
-
https://twitter.com/cnsawatcher/status/1653629965106139137Quote
📸Hainan commercial launch pad under construction. The new launch pad will be tested and serve the clients in 2024 for regular commercial launches. Source: buff.ly/3HAmbsm
-
#135 by FutureSpaceTourist on 11 May, 2023 11:51
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1656617470822842368Quote
The construction of the service tower at Wenchang commercial launch pad #1 has completed on May 10, ~20 days before the original plan
m.chinanews.com/wap/detail/zw/…
-
#136 by FutureSpaceTourist on 14 May, 2023 12:34
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1657634688633303040Quote
There will be more launch pads to be built along Wenchang's coast to the west of the currently under-construction commercial launch site, including those for Long March 10 and Long March 9, according to a CCTV interview:
https://weibo.com/6189120710/N06hsnOEO
-
#137 by FutureSpaceTourist on 02 Jul, 2023 17:13
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1675531113035632640Quote
Latest footage of construction at Wenchang commercial launch site on July 2nd. The first launch will be Long March 8G from pad #1 in June, 2024
mp.weixin.qq.com/s/chEibATB8fcA… -
#138 by FutureSpaceTourist on 06 Jul, 2023 05:47
-
https://twitter.com/aj_fi/status/1676827092384731137Quote
Storage tanks being installed at the new commercial launch centre at Hainan this week. Will host first launches next year. mp.weixin.qq.com/s/c2g8Hmmsp7gN… -- https://spacenews.com/new-chinese-commercial-spaceport-to-host-first-launch-next-year/
-
#139 by FutureSpaceTourist on 23 Jul, 2023 19:19
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1683194857966407680Quote
Latest footage of construction at Wenchang commercial launch site on July 20
At pad#1, a 3rd lightning tower has been finished & the 4th is growing
More footage of the fueling system, CZ-8 assembly building, mission tracking & control building, propulsion center and substation -
#140 by FutureSpaceTourist on 25 Jul, 2023 05:04
-
YT version
-
#141 by FutureSpaceTourist on 28 Jul, 2023 15:13
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1684944399523061760Quote
Wenchang commercial launch site has started installing rotary platforms at launch pad #1 since July 22 and it's expected to be completed by the end of August
-
#142 by FutureSpaceTourist on 29 Jul, 2023 15:41
-
twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1685311439068934144Quote
All four lightning towers at Wenchang commercial launch pad #1 have been completed on July 27
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1685311652252753920Quote📸 mp.weixin.qq.com/s/TVy-uOMwkdmz…
-
#143 by FutureSpaceTourist on 02 Aug, 2023 15:36
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1686762654403264512Quote
Wenchang commercial launch tower #1 update: Installation of hinges completed. Truss structures being assembled on ground. 4 days ahead of the schedule
-
#144 by FutureSpaceTourist on 13 Aug, 2023 17:25
-
Quote
It's a new week and we got another video update of the construction at Wenchang commercial launch site
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1690776089856270336QuoteThe truss structure of Wenchang commercial launch pad #1 has been finished
-
#145 by FutureSpaceTourist on 28 Aug, 2023 05:43
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1695973328320688250Quote
A new week is about to start, so it's time to see what the Wenchang commercial launch site looks like now (as of August 25)
-
#146 by FutureSpaceTourist on 30 Aug, 2023 09:10
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1696808156704469438Quote
Wenchang commercial launch site has completed the foundation pouring of launch pad #2's water deluge system on August 29
mp.weixin.qq.com/s/HrW_HpCd-fvX… -
#147 by FutureSpaceTourist on 02 Sep, 2023 15:41
-
twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1697992201723388203Quote
Launch pad #2 of Wenchang commercial launch site will support 10+ rockets of different fuel types
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1697994964574274042QuoteIncluding:
CAS-SPACE's kerosene fueled Kinetica
SAST's methane rockets
SPACE-PIONEER's kerosene fueled Tianlong-2/3
GALAXY-SPACE's kerosene fueled Pallas-1
DEEP-BLUE's kerosene fueled Nebula-1
iSpace's methane fueled Hyperbola-3
-
#148 by FutureSpaceTourist on 12 Sep, 2023 05:02
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1701367082275967417Quote
Sentinel-2 satellite images show likely a new assembly building and rail tracks to transfer the rocket are being built next to the ones for Long March 7 at Wenchang launch site
Credit: @WLR_2678 -
#149 by FutureSpaceTourist on 01 Oct, 2023 19:26
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1708556329944817686Quote
The cantilever crane of Wenchang commercial launch pad #1 has arrived at the construction site
-
#150 by FutureSpaceTourist on 05 Oct, 2023 20:22
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1710025607156007181Quote
Swing platform in action. Wenchang commercial launch site has tested the right arm of launch pad #1 on October 04
-
#151 by FutureSpaceTourist on 23 Oct, 2023 03:06
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1716260287584862382Quote
Heavy rain due to Tropical Storm Sanba caused flooding at the construction site of Wenchang commercial launch site
-
#152 by FutureSpaceTourist on 05 Nov, 2023 21:38
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1721293028852383982Quote
One of the three parts, the center piece, of the flame deflector to be installed on Wenchang commercial launch pad #1 has arrived at the construction site.
This piece measures 3.9m tall, 3.8m wide & 10.5m long and weighs 48t while the whole deflector will be 129.5t.
-
#153 by FutureSpaceTourist on 17 Nov, 2023 19:55
-
https://twitter.com/cnspaceflight/status/1725611139135046071Quote
500 days of building the Wenchang commercial launch site in 50 seconds.
-
#154 by Conexion Espacial on 30 Nov, 2023 17:00
-
Launch schedule for Space Pioneer's first three Tianlong-3 rockets
Demonstration Flight - NET June, 2024 - Wenchang Space Launch Site
Second Flight - NET September, 2024 - Wenchang Space Launch Site or Jiuquan Space Launch Site
Third Flight - NET November, 2024 - Wenchang Space Launch Site or Jiuquan Space Launch SiteMaiden Flight from Wenchang Island.
https://fxtwitter.com/CNSpaceflight/status/1730274941197484237 -
#155 by Galactic Penguin SST on 03 Dec, 2023 07:01
-
Just a slight comment regarding the administration of the future launch facilities at Wenchang:
This launch should use the newly built Hainan commercial launch site. Although this launch site is close to the Wenchang launch site, for professional reasons, we should assume that this launch will be launched from the Hainan commercial launch site.
TL;DR as far as I understand, it's pretty similar to the Cape Canaveral Space (ex-Air) Force Station/Kennedy Space Center case:
* The current Wenchang Space Launch Site is managed by the PLA Strategic Support Force, and unlike the older 3 launch sites that are under direct management of their Space Systems Department, it's a "sub-facility" administratively under Xichang SLC. This includes the 2 existing pads and future launch facilities for the Long March 10 and 9 SHLVs.
* The new commercial launch site on the other hand is apparently jointly owned by CASC, CASIC, China Satellite Network Corporation (the new state owned company running the future main Chinese LEO comsat constellation) and the Hainan local government. This covers the 2 under-construction fixed pads and up to 2 pads for mobile launchers. -
#156 by Satori on 03 Dec, 2023 12:52
-
Just a slight comment regarding the administration of the future launch facilities at Wenchang:
This launch should use the newly built Hainan commercial launch site. Although this launch site is close to the Wenchang launch site, for professional reasons, we should assume that this launch will be launched from the Hainan commercial launch site.
TL;DR as far as I understand, it's pretty similar to the Cape Canaveral Space (ex-Air) Force Station/Kennedy Space Center case:
* The current Wenchang Space Launch Site is managed by the PLA Strategic Support Force, and unlike the older 3 launch sites that are under direct management of their Space Systems Department, it's a "sub-facility" administratively under Xichang SLC. This includes the 2 existing pads and future launch facilities for the Long March 10 and 9 SHLVs.
* The new commercial launch site on the other hand is apparently jointly owned by CASC, CASIC, China Satellite Network Corporation (the new state owned company running the future main Chinese LEO comsat constellation) and the Hainan local government. This covers the 2 under-construction fixed pads and up to 2 pads for mobile launchers.
This is very useful. Thank you! -
#157 by yuebai on 03 Dec, 2023 12:57
-
Just a slight comment regarding the administration of the future launch facilities at Wenchang:
What you said is very correct, but when it comes to the property rights of the Hainan Commercial Launch Center, I think the situation will be more complicated.This launch should use the newly built Hainan commercial launch site. Although this launch site is close to the Wenchang launch site, for professional reasons, we should assume that this launch will be launched from the Hainan commercial launch site.
TL;DR as far as I understand, it's pretty similar to the Cape Canaveral Space (ex-Air) Force Station/Kennedy Space Center case:
* The current Wenchang Space Launch Site is managed by the PLA Strategic Support Force, and unlike the older 3 launch sites that are under direct management of their Space Systems Department, it's a "sub-facility" administratively under Xichang SLC. This includes the 2 existing pads and future launch facilities for the Long March 10 and 9 SHLVs.
* The new commercial launch site on the other hand is apparently jointly owned by CASC, CASIC, China Satellite Network Corporation (the new state owned company running the future main Chinese LEO comsat constellation) and the Hainan local government. This covers the 2 under-construction fixed pads and up to 2 pads for mobile launchers.
-
#158 by FutureSpaceTourist on 25 Dec, 2023 06:30
-
https://twitter.com/raz_liu/status/1738182653164274020Quote
Wenchang Commercial launch site Pad-2 base completed. The Pad-2 could support dozens of different private-companies' rockets. Based on the current infomation, The maiden launch should be Tianlong-3 of Space Pionner. via mp.weixin.qq.com/s?__biz=MzkxND…
https://twitter.com/raz_liu/status/1739181471087370260QuoteWenchang commercial launch site Pad-01 will complete at 29 Dec. The maiden launch will be the XLV(code name) rocket of CASC.
-
#159 by FutureSpaceTourist on 29 Dec, 2023 01:04
-
https://twitter.com/raz_liu/status/1740544727932678301Quote
Wenchang commercial launch site is on going a ceremony for Pad - 1's completion. via weibo.com/7743278955/Nzk…
-
#160 by Alter Sachse on 29 Dec, 2023 16:39
-
Launchpad No. 1 of the Hainan Commercial Spaceport
https://www.sinodefenceforum.com/t/chinas-space-program-thread-ii.9003/page-305#post-1045756
-
#161 by FutureSpaceTourist on 31 Dec, 2023 12:39
-
https://twitter.com/segeryu/status/1741442193355911579Quote
( 📷 2023-12-29 Guo Cheng/UAV)
---
The No. 1 launch station of Hainan International Commercial Space Launch Center was completed.
-
#162 by GELORD on 24 Mar, 2024 18:15
-
Wenchang Space Launch Site
-
#163 by FutureSpaceTourist on 19 May, 2024 04:56
-
-
#164 by KVP424 on 17 Jul, 2024 16:46
-
Deluge system test at 2nd Wenchang commercial launch pad
) ...
