On Thursday China conducted two launch missions, employing both a Long March 3B and a Kinetica-1 launch vehicle.
During the Long March 3B flight a lightning strike occurred shortly after liftoff. The rocket continued its nominal trajectory and successfully delivered its payload to the intended orbit.
The Kinetica-1 launcher also lifted off on the same day, placing five satellites into space. The flight proceeded without incident, demonstrating the reliability of the small‑scale launch system.
Together these missions illustrate China’s capability to conduct launches despite adverse weather and highlight the expanding versatility of its launch fleet.