China Expands Space Presence with 18-Satellite Launch

China has launched a Long March-6 rocket carrying 18 satellites from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre. The mission bolsters China's space capabilities, which include crewed missions, a space station, and the Beidou satellite system—an alternative to the U.S.-led GPS.

China successfully launched a Long March-6 rocket carrying 18 satellites from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre in Shanxi Province on Tuesday. The rockets reached their intended orbits without incident, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.

This launch is part of China's extensive space program, which includes crewed missions, a functional space station, and lunar exploration missions.

Significantly, China has also developed the Beidou System of satellites, intended for national security, communications, and scientific purposes, positioning it as a potential competitor to the U.S.-dominated GPS navigation system.

(With inputs from agencies.)