China launched a new fleet of 20 internet satellites on March 13, 2026, from the Hainan commercial spacecraft launch site in southern China, with a Long March-8A rocket.

The Long March-8A rocket successfully lifted off at 3:48 a.m., marking a significant achievement in China's space exploration efforts by placing the satellites into their designated low-Earth orbit.

Developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, this advanced carrier rocket boasts a length of 50.5 meters and a launch weight of 371 tonnes.

With a capacity to carry up to 7 tonnes to a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 700 kilometers, the Long March-8A meets the launch requirements essential for constellation networking in low and medium-Earth orbits.

Since its first flight in 2025, the Long March-8A has established itself as a key platform for deploying low and medium-Earth orbit satellites, thanks to its innovative modular design, high cost-effectiveness, and quick response capabilities.

The recent launch not only signifies progress in China's satellite constellation initiatives but also represents the 631st flight mission of the Long March carrier rocket series, illustrating the nation's growing presence in space.