China’s first commercial spacecraft launch site is now operational

Located on the coast, HICAL benefits from an optimal position for recovering reusable rockets post-launch. Collaborating with commercial rocket developers, the company is conducting experiments focused on vertical landings and sea-based rocket recovery.

The site boasts four launch pads: two for liquid propellant rockets and two for solid propellant rockets. The No. 1 and No. 2 launch pads were completed in December 2023 and June 2024, respectively.

Specifically, the No. 1 pad is tailored for the Long March-8, China’s cutting-edge medium-lift carrier rocket. Meanwhile, the No. 2 pad can accommodate a variety of rockets with different diameters from commercial developers. Each pad supports up to 16 launches per year.

The launch site’s propellant and gas supply system is versatile and capable of handling liquid oxygen, hydrogen, kerosene, and methane.