China tests world's first non-steel launch tower

Home>>Sci-Edu

Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Tuesday, November 04, 2003

China tests world's first non-steel launch tower

DISCUSSION

CHINESE

SEND TO FRIEND

Monday's successful launch of China's recoverable science experimental satellite shows the reliability of the world's first satellite testing and launch tower with a structure of cement reinforced by steel bars, space experts said.

The tower, 91 meters high, replaces the commonly-used steel structure. Located at Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Gansu Province, northwest China, the tower looks like a high-rise building and is used for assembling, testing and launching satellites and rockets, beside injecting propellants.

The building comprises of more than 40 testing workshops and closed rooms, providing all-weather pre-launch testing in convenient and comfortable conditions for engineers and technicians even it is windy, bitterly cold or very hot outside.

Compared with the popular steel-structured launch tower at homeand abroad, the new tower is cost-effective.

Experts say the new launch tower represents the country's first versatile launch facility capable of testing and launching different models of satellites.

Previously, China had to build separate test, launch and control systems for different models of satellite.

Located near the launch pad for China's manned spacecraft flight, the new tower shares some of the ground facilities.

Questions?Comments? Click here

China to launch moon probing satellite in 3 to 5 years

China capable of launching 10-ton space station module

Satellite to assist in flood control, conserving water

Is English invading Chinese culture? ( 20 Messages)

Chinese fleet visit heart of US forces in the Pacific ( 15 Messages)

Global survey: Chinese women sexiest ( 56 Messages)

Economist: China has no need to worry about possible trade deficits ( 3 Messages)

Japanese students, teacher make apology in Xi'an ( 17 Messages)

China expects to see trade deficit in near future: official ( 9 Messages)