LandSpace launches satellites to test new solar-wing power systems

(SpaceEnergy) Chinese launch company LandSpace has deployed two experimental satellites intended to test new solar-wing power systems in orbit, following a successful launch on 14 October.

The Guangchuan-03 and Guangchuan-04 spacecraft were among 10 satellites carried by LandSpace's Zhuque-2E Y4 rocket, which lifted off from the Dongfeng commercial space launch facility in China at 19:40 Beijing time (11:40 GMT).

LandSpace confirmed that all 10 spacecraft reached their designated orbits.

The two Guangchuan satellites were developed by Lanta Intelligent to investigate technologies supporting future satellite networks.

Their planned orbital experiments include new solar-wing energy systems, highly integrated onboard processing units, high-speed laser communications and integrated laser-routing equipment.

The solar-wing experiments are intended to support the development of electrical power systems for larger satellite networks.

LandSpace did not disclose the solar arrays' rated electrical output, conversion efficiency, photovoltaic technology or deployment configuration.

The company has also not confirmed successful activation or performance testing of the new power systems.

The remaining eight satellites, developed by ADA Space, will investigate technologies including high-performance onboard computing, laser communications and large radiative cooling structures.

These experiments could provide information relevant to spacecraft thermal management as onboard processing requirements increase.

The launch was the tenth flight of LandSpace's Zhuque-2 rocket family, which uses liquid oxygen and methane propulsion.

The confirmed milestone is the successful orbital delivery of the experimental spacecraft. Qualification of their solar-wing power systems remains subject to subsequent orbital testing.