Laos’s first satellite LaoSat-1 has successfully been launched by a Chinese rocket, Long March 3B.
The communication satellite was launched from Xichang Satellite Launch Center, situated in China’s Sichuan province.
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Approximately 29 minutes after launch, the satellite separated from the rocket and reached 128.5° East geostationary transfer orbit (GTO).
The satellite, weighing more than 3.8t, was developed by China Academy of Space Technology (CAST). It has a payload capacity of 992lb (450kg).
LaoSat-1 is expected to offer satellite communication, information and technology services to Laos and its foreign customers. It has a lifespan of 15 years and will operate through 14 extended C-band and eight extended Ku-band transponders for different communication services.
Chinese president Xi Jinping told Xinhua he considered it a significant manifestation of the China-Laos comprehensive strategic co-operative partnership under new circumstances.
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By GlobalDataXi also expressed he wants to begin a new collaboration with developing countries, including Laos in the fields of astronautics and economic development.
In August, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation’s subsidiary China Asia-Pacific Mobile Telecommunications Satellite successfully conducted LaoSat-1’s preliminary design review, which was followed by a critical design review of the satellite system.
In 2012, China Asia-Pacific Mobile Communications Satellite Company (APMT), China Great Wall Industry and NAST signed an agreement, valued at $259m for the LaoSat-1 launch.
