China launches test satellite for orbital refueling

XICHANG -- China successfully sent a test satellite, Shijian 25, into space on Tuesday morning, using a Long March 3B rocket for the launch.

The rocket blasted off at 4:00 am (Beijing Time) from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwestern Sichuan province, bringing the payload into the preset orbit later.

The satellite is primarily used for the verification of satellite fuel replenishment and life extension service technologies, according to the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, the Shijian 25's developer.

The launch marked China's first rocket launch in 2025 and the 555th mission of Long March series carrier rockets.