CAS Space Lijian Rocket Completes First Commercial Launch
Summary: CAS Space Lijian rocket successfully completed its first commercial mission on July 24, 2026, deploying multiple small satellites into orbit.
On July 24, 2026, the Lijian-1 solid-fueled launch vehicle, developed by CAS Space, successfully carried out its first commercial mission. According to Spaceflight Now, the rocket delivered multiple small satellites into their intended orbits as planned, marking a fully successful launch. This represents the first time the Lijian rocket series has been entrusted with commercial payload deployment since its maiden flight.
Lijian-1 is a four-stage solid launch vehicle designed for rapid response and flexible deployment, primarily targeting the small and microsatellite launch market. The vehicle had previously completed several technology demonstration flights, and the success of this commercial mission signals the Lijian series' formal entry into commercial operations. Detailed information regarding the exact number of satellites onboard, payload customers, and orbital parameters is expected to be disclosed by CAS Space in due course.
This launch marks another significant milestone in China's commercial space sector. In recent years, demand for satellite launches has grown rapidly, driven by applications such as satellite internet and remote sensing constellations. With the successful completion of its first commercial contract, the Lijian rocket has laid a solid foundation for CAS Space to compete in an increasingly crowded commercial launch market.