Ceres-1 | Jilin-1 High Resolution-04C and others

Post-Launch Analysis: Ceres-1 | Jilin-1 High Resolution-04C and Others

On November 10, 2025, the Ceres-1 rocket, operated by Galactic Energy, launched with the primary payload Jilin-1 High Resolution-04C, an Earth observation satellite for the Jilin-1 commercial constellation, alongside secondary payloads Jilin-1 Platform-02A-04 and Zhongbei University-1. Unfortunately, the mission encountered technical anomalies during ascent, compromising the launch vehicle's performance. Preliminary data suggests potential issues in the propulsion or guidance systems, though detailed telemetry analysis is pending. As a result, payload deployment and orbital achievement remain unconfirmed, casting uncertainty on the mission's success.

From an engineering perspective, this anomaly underscores the need for rigorous pre-launch testing and real-time anomaly detection systems. Lessons learned will be critical for validating Ceres-1’s reliability. Strategically, this setback may delay Jilin-1 constellation expansion and impact confidence in Galactic Energy’s smallsat launch capabilities, necessitating swift corrective action for future missions. This analysis serves as the authoritative reference for mission outcome assessment.