The Xingyun-2 are a series of small satellites built by the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation in Wuhan Province, People's Republic of China.

Once launched, the satellites will virtually connect with one another to form an "internet-of-things." Once linked, the satellites will create a communications network in Low Earth Orbit.

The first of the Xingyun-2 satellites was named "Wuhan" in honor of those who died and those who fought the COVID-19 outbreak, which was first identified in Wuhan Province.

The Kuaizhou 1A (KZ-1A) is a Chinese commercial small-lift orbital launch vehicle, developed by the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC). It is part of the Kuaizhou family of rockets, originally designed as quick-response military payload carriers. The Kuaizhou 1A was created to offer a more commercially viable version, targeting the growing small satellite launch market. It is a solid-fueled rocket with a high degree of reliability and rapid launch capability, which allows it to deploy payloads into low Earth orbit (LEO) within a short preparation time.

Specs

Height: 19.4 meters (63.6 feet)

Diameter: 1.4 meters (4.6 feet)

Liftoff Mass: 30 metric tons

Payload to Low Earth Orbit (LEO): 300 kg (661 lbs) to 200-300 km altitude

Payload to Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO): 200 kg (440 lbs) to 700 km altitude

Stages: 3 solid-fuel stages + 1 liquid-fuel upper stage

The KZ-1A stands out due to its compact size and relatively low cost, making it appealing to customers needing to launch small satellites, including those for Earth observation, communication, and technology demonstration purposes. It is capable of carrying payloads up to about 200 kg to a 700 km Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO). The Kuaizhou 1A's operational flexibility and ability to be launched from mobile platforms add to its appeal for both governmental and commercial clients, making it a key player in China’s expanding commercial space sector.

The rocket made its maiden flight on January 9, 2017, and has seen several successful launches since then, showcasing its effectiveness in placing small satellites into orbit.