Long March 7A | Shijian 29 A-B
Long March 7A • Long March
📝 Mission Description
China's Long March 7A Successfully Launches Shijian 29 Satellites
On December 30, 2025, China's space program marked another milestone with the launch of the Long March 7A rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site on Hainan Island. The mission deployed the Shijian 29 A and B satellites, officially described as technology demonstrators for spatial target detection. This event underscores China's growing prowess in orbital operations, blending routine satellite deployments with cutting-edge advancements in space surveillance.
The primary objectives of the Shijian 29 mission revolve around testing innovative technologies for detecting and tracking objects in space. These satellites are equipped with advanced sensors and imaging systems designed to identify and monitor orbital debris, asteroids, or other celestial bodies. Payload capabilities include high-resolution optical and radar systems, enabling real-time data collection and analysis. While the official narrative emphasizes peaceful applications like space situational awareness—crucial for avoiding collisions in increasingly crowded orbits—analysts note the potential dual-use nature of such tech. For instance, enhanced detection could support anti-satellite operations or missile defense, aligning with broader military strategies. Each satellite weighs approximately 1,000 kilograms and operates in a sun-synchronous orbit at around 600 kilometers altitude, optimizing for consistent lighting conditions during observations.
At the heart of the mission is the Long March 7A rocket, a medium-lift vehicle developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology. Standing about 60 meters tall with a diameter of 3.35 meters, it features a two-stage core boosted by four liquid oxygen/kerosene strap-on boosters. The first stage employs YF-100 engines, delivering a thrust of 1,200 kN each, while the second stage uses YF-75 engines for upper-atmosphere maneuvers. With a liftoff mass of around 573 tons, the rocket can deliver up to 7 tons to geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO) or 13.5 tons to low Earth orbit (LEO). Its design incorporates cryogenic propulsion for efficiency, reducing costs and environmental impact compared to older hypergolic-fueled models. This iteration builds on the Long March 7, adding a hydrogen-oxygen third stage for higher orbits, making it versatile for communications, navigation, and reconnaissance payloads.
The Long March 7A's performance history has been largely reliable since its maiden flight in March 2021. Out of seven launches prior to this mission, six succeeded, with one failure in 2022 attributed to a
ℹ️ Official Details
2 satellites officially described as for "demonstration of new technologies for spatial targets detection" purposes.
🎯 Post-Launch Analysis
The Long March 7A mission on December 30, 2025, carrying Shijian 29 A-B, achieved a successful launch and orbital insertion. The rocket performed flawlessly, demonstrating robust technical execution and reliability under operational conditions. Both satellites, designed for "demonstration of new technologies for spatial targets detection," were deployed precisely into their intended orbits, marking a significant achievement in payload delivery accuracy. Key engineering outcomes include validation of the Long March 7A’s enhanced payload capacity and precision guidance systems, reinforcing its role in China’s space infrastructure. The mission’s success paves the way for advancements in spatial detection technologies, potentially enhancing future surveillance and monitoring capabilities. Additionally, it underscores the reliability of the Long March 7A for complex missions, setting a strong foundation for subsequent launches and expanding applications in scientific and strategic domains.