China’s commercial launch firm Expace successfully launched its upgraded Kuaizhou-1A rocket on December 3, 2024, from Xichang Satellite Launch Center.

The rocket deployed the Haishao-1 satellite, a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) remote sensing satellite.

The enhanced Kuaizhou-1A features a longer first and second stage, a larger payload fairing, and an increased payload capacity, able to carry up to 450 kg to low Earth orbit (LEO), Space News has reported.

This launch adds to China’s expanding portfolio of light-lift solid rockets, supporting the country’s growing commercial space sector.

Written by B.C. Begley