On January 23, China carried out two notable satellite launches, further advancing its ambitious space programs. The first launch deployed the fourth batch of satellites for the Thousand Sails (Qianfan) megaconstellation, while the second introduced the classified TJS-14 satellite, believed to support electronic intelligence (ELINT) operations. An explosion of spent booster was also reported.

Accident:

Security camera footage shared on the social media platform Sina Weibo captured the moment two family members reacted to a nearby explosion that illuminated the night sky. Fortunately, the rocket booster, which detonated upon impact, landed in the hills above their home. The Long March 3B, one of China’s older workhorse rockets, relies on a toxic hypergolic propellant mixture of hydrazine and nitrogen tetroxide. Its first stage is supported by four boosters, each 7.4 feet wide (2.25 meters). These boosters often retain residual propellant, causing them to explode upon impact with the ground. Additionally, any remaining fuel and oxidizer pose potential risks to both humans and animals.

Launch of TJS-14 Satellite

Later on January 23, a Long March 3B rocket lifted off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China at 10:32 a.m. Eastern (1532 UTC). The China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT) announced the successful deployment of the Tongxin Jishu Shiyan-14 (TJS-14) satellite less than an hour after liftoff. The satellite is now heading toward a geostationary orbit (GEO).

According to Chinese state media, the TJS-14 satellite will primarily be used for satellite communications, radio and television broadcasts, data transmission, and other services. It will also conduct related technical tests and verifications. However, no images of the satellite were released.

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Assumed Functions of TJS Satellites

Outside observers believe that TJS satellites serve additional purposes beyond those officially stated. These include:

• Electronic Intelligence (ELINT): Collecting intelligence through electronic signals.
• Missile Detection and Early Warning Systems: Developing technology to enhance China’s missile defense capabilities.
• Advanced Communications and Signals Intelligence: Testing new communication systems, sensors, and technologies.
• Inspector Satellites: Conducting experiments with satellites capable of coordinated maneuvers.

For instance, the TJS-3 satellite, launched in 2018, released a subsatellite that performed subsequent maneuvers. This subsatellite demonstrated the ability to coordinate movements with the TJS-3. Furthermore, the main satellite later conducted close approaches to U.S. satellites, suggesting that its capabilities extend beyond the communications functions described by Chinese media.

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Unlike traditional non-military satellites, where the Chinese government typically announces the satellite’s name, mission, platform, launch vehicle, and launch site ahead of time, TJS satellite launches follow a different pattern. For these satellites, the government issues airspace closure notices just one day prior and provides only vague statements about their purpose post-launch.

While the exact function of TJS satellites remains classified, satellite observers speculate that they serve the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) by providing early warning capabilities and signals intelligence (SIGINT). It could possibly be involved in satellite inspection. The TJS-3 satellite, launched in 2018, released a subsatellite which carried out subsequent maneuvers indicating it was a subsatellite capable of coordinated movements with TJS-3. The main satellite later made close approaches to U.S. satellites. The activities suggest uses beyond those of communications, as stated by the terse Chinese media descriptions

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Thousand Sails Megaconstellation: 72 Satellites in Orbit

Eighteen Qianfan Jigui satellites, part of the Thousand Sails megaconstellation, were launched from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center using a Long March-6 rocket. This marked the 557th launch of the Long March series of carrier rockets.

With this launch, the constellation now includes 72 satellites in orbit, aiming to provide low Earth orbit (LEO) internet services. Also referred to as Qianfan or the G60 Starlink project, the Thousand Sails initiative has previously seen launches in August, October, and December 2024.

Spacesail (SSST), the driving force behind the project, plans to establish a constellation of 14,000 satellites, with a target of having 600 in orbit by the end of 2025. The company has secured significant funding, including approximately $943 million in early 2024 and $137 million for its satellite manufacturing subsidiary, Genesat, in late December 2024.

The satellites launched on January 23 are believed to have been manufactured by the Shanghai Engineering Center for Microsatellites. U.S. space tracking data reveals that earlier batches of satellites have performed various orbit-raising maneuvers. For example, the first batch raised their orbits from around 800 kilometers to approximately 1,060 kilometers in altitude. However, the second batch has shown minimal orbit-raising activity, potentially indicating issues with these satellites. All satellites operate in orbits inclined at 89 degrees.

CASC (China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation) has ambitious plans for 2025, aiming to launch over 10 Long March 6A rockets. In 2024, five Long March 6A rockets were launched, three of which supported the Spacesail program. Since its debut in 2022, a total of 10 Long March 6A rockets have been launched.

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