[Video provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The Smart Dragon-3 Y6 carrier rocket was successfully launched from the sea off the coast of Shandong province early in the morning on Aug 9, marking another successful mission for China's commercial space sector.

The Smart Dragon-3 Y6 carrier rocket was developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology and assembled in Haiyang, a county-level city in Yantai. It is a four-stage solid-fueled rocket with a total length of 31 meters and a maximum diameter of 2.64 meters. It features a unique launch method, which includes horizontal assembly, testing, and transportation, followed by vertical ignition. This launch method enhances efficiency and reduces preparation time.

The successful launch of the Smart Dragon-3 Y6 carrier rocket in Shandong. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

This mission was particularly challenging due to the high-temperature and high-humidity conditions of the summer launch window. However, the team overcame these obstacles through comprehensive technical analysis and improvements, ensuring the rocket was able to withstand the harsh environment.

To date, Haiyang has supported 17 maritime launches, sending a total of 104 satellites into space. The city has established a robust maritime launch system and is rapidly developing a comprehensive commercial space industry chain, including rocket manufacturing, satellite operations, and space-themed tourism.