China on Wednesday launched another science experimental satellite into a preset orbit, atop a Long March 2D carrier rocket from a launching center in northwest China's Gansu Province.

Officials at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center said the Shijian-7 (SJ-7) satellite was rocketed at 6:40 a.m. and started orbiting normally 12 minutes later.

The SJ-7 Satellite was designed to monitor space environment and conduct other spacial scientific and technological experiments with a three-year life span, according to the Center.

The launch is the 85th mission taken by the Long March carrier rockets since 1970 and the 43rd consecutive successful one since October 1996.

The first SJ Satellite was launched in 1971 and the technological standards of the satellite detectors have since kept improving.

Source: Xinhua