On April 23rd, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation's First Academy, in coordination with China Great Wall Industry Corporation, successfully conducted the secondary separation test of the fairing for the Long March 8A improved carrier rocket ("LM-8A+"), as well as a joint operation test for a new type of satellite launch vehicle.
Previously, on March 24th, the LM-8A+ had already completed its first fairing separation test.
Fairing separation is a crucial test during the development phase of a rocket project. With two successful tests completed, the LM-8A+ has thoroughly validated its fairing design, separation procedures, and the joint operation process for the new satellite launch vehicle, laying a solid foundation for a successful maiden flight.
To cater to the diversified demands of the commercial satellite launch market and significantly enhance cost-effectiveness, the design structure of the Chang'e 8 Improved Rocket has been carefully optimized. For instance, a tapered section of about 2 meters in length seamlessly transitions the fairing envelope from 5.2 meters to 3.35 meters, achieving a perfect fit. Extensive testing has fully validated the available envelope range.
Simultaneously, the new Star-Rocket joint operation trials have thoroughly validated process correctness and interface compatibility, providing valuable experience and optimization opportunities for subsequent actual operations at the launch site.
Subsequently, the Chang'e 8 Improved model team will progressively complete modal tests, factory tests, and integrated rehearsals at the launch site. It is expected to make its maiden flight at Wenchang, Hainan, in the latter half of 2024.
The Chang'e 8, an enhancement based on the Chang'e 8 basic model, is tailored for future demands in launching large-scale constellations into low Earth orbit. With a payload capacity of up to 7 tons to a 700-kilometer Sun-synchronous orbit, it accommodates two fairing diameters of 4.2 meters and 5.2 meters. Characterized by advanced performance, low cost, high reliability, and rapid deployment, it stands as one of China's future workhorses for medium and low Earth orbit missions.
The Chang'e 8 rocket series will offer a gradient of payload capacities covering 3 tons, 5 tons, and 7 tons to a 700-kilometer Sun-synchronous orbit, catering to various users' needs for constellation deployment.
