A Long March-12B launch from the Dongfeng Commercial Aerospace Innovation Test Zone near Jiuquan marked a debut flight that deployed two Qianfan satellites for China’s internet megaconstellation, positioned as a rival to SpaceX’s Starlink.

CASC said a booster landing would be attempted on a future flight, continuing China’s exploration of reusable launch tech alongside earlier efforts with the Long March 12A and private ventures.

Analysts note China’s irregular adherence to international debris disposal norms and safety practices, contrasting with oversight from ICAO and IMO frameworks.

The launcher resembles SpaceX’s Falcon 9 in design and propulsion—about 70 meters tall with a reusable first stage powered by nine kerosene/LOX engines—though this flight did not land the booster.

The article situates the launch within broader space race dynamics, hinting at potential crewed Moon ambitions by 2030 and situating it against NASA’s Artemis timeline.

Analysts warn that rapid mega-constellation expansion could strain low-Earth orbit, prompting discussions on orbital traffic management akin to air-traffic control for satellites.

The Long March-12B debuted for the first time with no advance safety warnings, launching from Jiuquan carrying Qianfan satellites.

The Long March-12B, a partially reusable rocket, is described as similar in capability to Falcon 9 and follows the February test flight of the moon-rocket prototype Long March 10.

The launch took place from the Gobi Desert site with no prior airspace or maritime notices, challenging typical safety procedures aligned with international norms.

The Long March-12B is portrayed as comparable to Falcon 9 capability-wise and marks a cross-year progression after the moon-rocket prototype’s orbit and controlled splashdown.

Experts suggest competition between Qianfan and Starlink could accelerate global internet coverage, benefiting remote areas.

The Long March-12B is a modified two-stage, commercially optimized rocket launching from the Dongfeng site near Jiuquan, with its debut in mid-2024.