China Launches New Remote Sensing Satellite for Algeria

China on Thursday launched a new remote sensing satellite for Algeria, placing AlSat-3A into orbit from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China.

A Long March-2C rocket lifted off at 12:01 p.m. local time, carrying the satellite and deploying it into its preset orbit, according to Chinese space authorities.

Imageries captured by remote sensing satellites can be interpreted by military analysts for intelligence gathering. The satellite launch signals deepening cooperation between China and Algeria which has traditionally been a Russian equipment buyer.

The satellite was developed by the China Academy of Space Technology under the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. It will be used for land planning as well as disaster prevention and mitigation activities.

The launch is part of the Algeria remote sensing satellite system program, a joint project between China Great Wall Industry Corporation, a subsidiary of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, and the Algerian Space Agency.

The cooperation agreement, signed in July 2023, covers two optical remote sensing satellites, associated ground systems, personnel training, and related technical support services.

The project follows the launch of Alcomsat-1, a communication satellite delivered on December 11, 2017, which marked the first space cooperation mission between China and Algeria.

Thursday’s mission was the 626th flight of the Long March carrier rocket series, China’s primary launch vehicle family.