China Successfully Launches Tianlian-3 01 Data Relay Satellite
Summary: On July 29 at 19:50, China successfully launched the Tianlian-3 01 data relay satellite from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site using a Long March 7A rocket, with the satellite entering its planned orbit.
On July 29, 2026, at 19:50 Beijing Time, China successfully launched the Tianlian-3 01 data relay satellite from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site using a Long March 7A carrier rocket. The satellite entered its planned orbit, marking a complete success for the launch mission.
The Tianlian satellite series constitutes China's independently developed data relay satellite system, primarily providing data relay and tracking, telemetry, and command (TT&C) services for manned spaceflight and medium-to-low Earth orbit spacecraft. Often called the "satellite of satellites," it is a critical component of the nation's space infrastructure. As a new-generation member, the successful deployment of Tianlian-3 01 will significantly enhance China's space-based TT&C and data relay capabilities, offering stronger support for space station operations and the real-time data return of remote sensing satellites.
This launch was the 580th flight of the Long March rocket family and another successful mission for the Long March 7A rocket, demonstrating the continued maturity and reliability of China's medium-lift, high-orbit launch vehicle technology.