Galactic Energy's Ceres-1 Reaches Orbit On First Sea Launch Mission

China's Galactic Energy has successfully conducted their first sea launch, marking the company's ninth consecutive successful launch.

The milestone was achieved as the Ceres-1 solid rocket, affectionately named "The Little Mermaid," roared to life from a transport erector launcher on a mobile sea platform off the coast of Haiyang, Shandong province, at 5:34 am Eastern (0934 UTC) on September 5.

The Ceres-1 rocket carried a payload of four satellites destined for Guodian Gaoke, a prominent commercial enterprise actively working on its ambitious Tianqi Low-Earth Orbit narrow-band Internet of Things (IoT) constellation.

These satellites, known as Tianqi satellites 21-24, were targeted to be deployed in an 800-kilometer-altitude orbit. The inclusion of chemical propulsion systems in these satellites enables them to perform critical orbital maneuvers, facilitating their roles in the IoT constellation.

Guodian Gaoke currently has 21 satellites already in orbit and aims to complete its 38-satellite constellation by 2024.

Credit: Galactic Energy

The Ceres-1 rocket itself boasts impressive specifications. It has a diameter of 1.4 meters, a length of approximately 20 meters, a take-off mass of approximately 33 tons, and features a liquid propellant upper stage. This rocket has the capability to deliver payloads of up to 400 kg to low Earth orbit (LEO) or 300 kg to a 500-kilometer-altitude sun-synchronous orbit (SSO).

This mission was the first to reach the 800-kilometer altitude mark, showcasing China's growing capabilities in space access.

China's Eastern sea launch spaceport in Haiyang played a crucial role in facilitating this historic launch. The mobile rocket launch barge, known as DE FU 15002, served as the launch platform, underscoring the versatility and adaptability of sea-based launch systems.

The successful deployment of these four Tianqi satellites and the flawless execution of the "The Little Mermaid" sea launch reaffirm China's growing presence in the commercial space sector. Galactic Energy continues to make strides in its efforts to expand access to space for various industries and further cement China's position as a prominent player in the global space industry.