China launches data relay satellite for crewed space missions

China launched a data relay satellite on Wednesday evening to support its crewed space program and other spacecraft operations, Xinhua News Agency reported.

The Tianlian III-01 satellite was launched at 7:50 pm from the Wenchang Space Launch Center in the southern island province of Hainan aboard a modified Long March 7 carrier rocket, according to Xinhua.

The satellite successfully entered its planned orbit, marking the complete success of the launch mission, Xinhua said.

The Tianlian III-01 satellite will primarily provide data relay, tracking and control services for crewed spacecraft, including spacecraft, space laboratories and the Chinese space station. It will also provide data relay, tracking and control support for resource satellites operating in medium and low Earth orbits.

The launch marked the 659th flight mission of the Long March carrier rocket series.