China launches Shijian-25 satellite to test on-orbit refueling and mission extension technologies

China has kicked off its 2025 launch activities with the successful launch of the Shijian-25 satellite, aiming to advance key technologies for on-orbit refueling and extending satellite lifespans. A Long March 3B rocket lifted off at 3:00 p.m. Eastern, Jan. 6 (2000 UTC), climbing into a night sky above Xichang Satellite Launch Center, southwest China. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) confirmed launch success around an hour after launch, revealing the previously undisclosed payload to be the Shijian-25. More

(Source: SpaceNews - Jan 7)