Chinese car manufacturer, Geely Automotive is launching Low Earth orbit communications satellites to test autonomous driving. These satellites are part of a constellation which will consist of 240 satellites.

Image credit: Geely

Based on fight proven technology of LM-1 and LM-2, the development of LM- 2C launch vehicle was started in 1970. After its successful fight in 1975, LM-2 was renamed to LM-2C.

Stats

Height: 42 m (138 ft)

Diameter: 3.35 m (11.0 ft)

Mass: 233,000 kg (514,000 lb)

Stages: 2

With 14 successes out of 14 launches for LEO missions, this launch vehicle was selected by Motorola, Inc. in April 1993 to provide multiple launches for Iridium communications satellites. According to the Iridium launch mission requirement, some necessary modifications were made. Then this launch vehicle was renamed as LM-2C/SD. Twelve (12) Iridium satellites were successfully launched by LM-2C/SD.

Credit: China Great Wall Industry Corporation

Launch Complex 3

LC-3 is one of two launch areas at the Xichang Satellite Launch Center.

The pad was completely rebuilt and upgraded between 2005 to 2006 for China's lunar exploration program.

It can currently launch the Chang Zheng 2, 2C, 3 and 3B rockets.

Xichang Satellite Launch Center

The center was built in the early 1980s and takes its name from the closest major city, Xichang, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China.

The space center is used to launch international scientific, civilian, and military satellites.

Xichang is not without controversy. In 1996, it was the site of a deadly launch accident when a rocket flew off course and crashed into an un-evacuated village 1.2 km away.

In 2007, it was used to launch an anti-satellite missile test which destroyed a satellite in low Earth orbit. The test created thousands of pieces of debris that were very hard to track and was criticized for the danger it potentially placed the crew of the International Space Station in.