China on Wednesday successfully launched a science experimental satellite into a preset orbit.
The Shijian-7 (SJ-7) satellite rocketed at 0410 IST atop a 'Long March 2D' carrier from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China's Gansu Province. It started orbiting normally 12 minutes later, officials were quoted as saying by the state media.
The SJ-7 was designed to monitor space environment and conduct other special scientific and technological experiments with a three-year life span, they said.
The launch is the 85th mission taken by the indigenously made 'Long March' carrier rockets since 1970 and the 43rd consecutive successful one since October 1996, Xinhua news agency reported.
The first SJ Satellite was launched in 1971.
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