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Credit - © Mark Wade
Major Articles Relating to China
  • China. The amazing history of rocket and space development in China.
Launch Sites in China
  • Haikou. Type: Suborbital Launch Site. Location: Haikou Space Center, Hainan. Latitude: 19.2296. Longitude: 110.6151.
  • Harbin. Type: Suborbital Launch Site. Location: Harbin, Heilongjiang, Manchuria. Latitude: 45.7500. Longitude: 126.6800.
  • Jingyu. Type: Suborbital Launch Site. Latitude: 42.2000. Longitude: 126.5000.
  • Jiuquan. Type: Orbital Launch Site. Location: Jiuquan Space Center. Latitude: 41.1180. Longitude: 100.4633.
  • Laogang. Type: Suborbital Launch Site. Location: Shanghai. Latitude: 31.0183. Longitude: 121.8959.
  • Mace Taiwan. Agency: US Army. Operating Country: USA. Type: IRCM Base. Location: Taiwan. Latitude: 24.4000. Longitude: 120.5000.
  • Shijiedu. Type: Suborbital Launch Site. Location: Anhui. Latitude: 30.9374. Longitude: 119.2058.
  • South China. Type: Sea Launch Area. Latitude: 24.0000. Longitude: 116.0000.
  • Taiyuan. Type: Orbital Launch Site. Location: Taiyuan Space Center, Wuzhai. Latitude: 39.1432. Longitude: 111.9674.
  • Xichang. Type: Orbital Launch Site. Location: Xichang Space Center. Latitude: 28.2465. Longitude: 102.0281.
Rockets Developed in China
  • 761. - sounding rocket - Status: Retired 1980. Lightweight two-stage solid propellant sounding rocket. Designation indicates development was authorised in January 1976. Evidently replaced both the HP2 and HP6 from about 1980 on. Used for routine measurement of the upper atmosphere.
  • Chang Cheng 1. - winged orbital launch vehicle - Status: Design 1988. The Chang Cheng 1 (Great Wall 1) vertical takeoff / horizontal landing two-stage space shuttle was a compromise design created jointly by Shanghai Astronautics Bureau 805 (now the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology) and Institute 604 of the Air Ministry in 1988. An expendable booster, consisting of three of Shanghai's planned liquid oxygen/kerosene modular boosters, would boost the winged second stage shuttle to a high altitude. The engines of the winged shuttle stage would take it to orbit. This approach would allow a first flight to be made in 2008.
  • Chinese RLV. - orbital launch vehicle - Status: Design 2001. By the late 2000 a leading candidate for China’s first reusable launch vehicle was a CALT-designed two-stage fully reusable rocket similar to the Kistler K-1.
  • Chinese Supergun. - short range ballistic missile - Status: Active. In January 1995 the Chinese army unveiled a 21 m long supergun capable of firing large artillery shells into South Korea and Taiwan. The gun could fire 85 mm shells over a 300 km range. Nothing further was heard of the weapon. Interestingly, China was one of the countries that retained Gerard Bull as a consultant in artillery design in the 1980's. It would seem that the supergun retained its military appeal as a psychological weapon or in anti-satellite applications.
  • CZ. - orbital launch vehicle - Status: Active. China's first ICBM, the DF-5, first flew in 1971. It was a two-stage storable-propellant rocket in the same class as the American Titan, the Russian R-36, or the European Ariane. The DF-5 spawned a long series of Long March ("Chang Zheng") CZ-2, CZ-3, and CZ-4 launch vehicles. These used cryogenic engines for upper stages and liquid-propellant strap-on motors to create a family of 12 Long-March rocket configurations capable of placing up to 9,200 kg into orbit. In 2000 China began development of a new generation of expendable launch vehicles using non-toxic, high-performance propellants with supposedly lower operating costs. However these encountered development delays, and it seemed the reliable Long March series of rockets would continue in operational use for nearly fifty years before being replaced.
  • CZ-1. - orbital launch vehicle - Status: Retired 2002. China began development of the CZ-1 (Changzheng-1 = Long March-1) launch vehicle in the second half of 1965. The project was undertaken with the specific objective of launching China’s first satellite, the DFH-1. The CZ-l’s first and second stages were adapted from those of the DF-3 intermediate range ballistic missile. The third stage used a new-design solid rocket motor.
  • CZ-NGLV. - orbital launch vehicle - Status: Development. China's family of new generation expendable launch vehicles began development in 2000. Boosters of various capabilities would be assembled from three modular stages of 2.25 m, 3.35 m and 5.0 m diameter. These would be powered by new variable-thrust 120 tonne thrust Lox/Kerosene engines or 50 tonne thrust Lox/LH2 engines.
  • DF-1. - intermediate range ballistic missile - Status: Retired 1970's. Chinese version of Soviet R-2.
  • DF-11. - short range ballistic missile - Status: Active. Export designation M-11, assembled as Shaheen in Pakistan.
  • DF-15. - intermediate range ballistic missile - Status: Active.
  • DF-2. - intermediate range ballistic missile - Status: Retired 1979. First Chinese IRBM, a single stage missile with the objective of carrying a 1500 kg warhead to Japan. The starting point for the design were R-12 construction drawings and a single exemplar of the missile provided by the Soviet Union prior to the break with Moscow in 1960. Following protracted development the design was accepted by the Chinese military for service in 1970.
  • DF-21. - intermediate range ballistic missile - Status: Active. JL-1 land based version. 2 stage vehicle.
  • DF-3. - intermediate range ballistic missile - Status: Retired 2002?. The DF-3 project began in 1964 with the objective of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of reaching the Philippines (earlier referred to as the DF-1).
  • DF-3 Tsien. - intercontinental ballistic missile - Status: Cancelled 1962. Development of the original DF-3 10,000 km missile was undertaken personally by Tsien Hue Shen, the father of Chinese rocketry, but faced insurmountable technical and management difficulties. It was cancelled and replaced by the DF-4.
  • DF-31. - intercontinental ballistic missile - Status: Active. Version of JL-2. Mobile, solid propellant, land-based, medium range, three-stage ballistic missile. Basis for the KT-1 light orbital launch vehicle.
  • DF-4. - intermediate range ballistic missile - Status: Retired 2005?. Development of the DF-4 began in 1964 with the objective of fielding a ballistic missile capable of hitting Guam. The technical solution was to add a second stage to the DF-3 IRBM.
  • DF-41. - intercontinental ballistic missile - Status: Development. New Chinese solid propellant, mobile ICBM. The DF-41 is expected to be a longer-range version of the DF-31. It is still in the development stage, with deployment not expected until after 2010.
  • DF-57. - intercontinental ballistic missile - Status: Active.
  • H-2 HTOHL. - winged orbital launch vehicle - Status: Design 1988. The H-2 horizontal takeoff / horizontal landing two-stage reusable space shuttle was proposed by Institute 601 of the Air Ministry in 1988. The first stage would used air breathing engines to accelerate the rocket-powered second stage to release velocity. This ambitious design would leapfrog China ahead of other spacefaring nations, but would be available no earlier than 2015. It was decided the concept was beyond Chinese technical capability, and it was not pursued further.
  • JL-1. - submarine-launched ballistic missile - Status: Active. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x DF-21 + 1 x DF-21 St2
  • KT. - all-solid orbital launch vehicle - Status: Active. Family of all solid-propellant Chinese launch vehicles, using the DF-31 ICBM as the basis with new upper or lower stages to achieve a range of payload performances. Following two unsuccessful launches in 2002-2003, the project may have been abandoned.
  • M-7. - short range ballistic missile - Status: Active. Surface-to-surface derivative of the HQ-2 air defense missile. US designation is CSS-8. Exported to Iran as Tamdar & Tondar in Iran.
  • Project 921. - orbital launch vehicle - Status: Design 1992. In 1992 Xiandong Bao of the Shanghai Astronautics Bureau revealed plans for a modular family of modern rockets to support future Chinese manned space activities. The entire family would be based on a Lox/Kerosene booster stage of 306 tonnes mass, and a Lox/LH2 upper stage of 57 tonnes mass.
  • T-7. - sounding rocket - Status: Retired 1969. China's first sounding rocket and first indigenously-built sounding rocket, launched from 1960-1965. The basic vehicle consisted of a single liquid propellant stage. This was later augmented with solid propellant booster stages. Later versions dispensed with the liquid propellant stage.
  • V-2 VTOHL. - winged orbital launch vehicle - Status: Design 1988. The V-2 vertical takeoff / horizontal landing two-stage reusable space shuttle was proposed by Beijing Department 11 of the Air Ministry in 1988. The first stage would use liquid oxygen/kerosene engines, while the second would use liquid oxygen/hydrogen engines. Both stages would be winged, and first flight would be no earlier than 2015.
  • Zhinui. - sounding rocket - Status: Retired 1991. Single stage vehicle.
Spacecraft Designed in China
  • Chang'e. - Planetary Lunar Orbiter
  • CX-1. - Technology Communications
  • DFH-1. - Technology Communications
  • DFH-2. - Communications Military
  • DFH-4. - Communications Military
  • FH-1. - Communications
  • FSW. - Surveillance Military
  • FY-1. - Earth Weather
  • FY-2. - Earth Weather
  • FY-3. - Earth Weather
  • HY-1. - Earth Landsat
  • JSSW. - Surveillance Military
  • Shiyan. - Surveillance Civilian
  • SJ. - Technology Communications
  • Yaogan. - Surveillance Military Radarsat
  • ZY. - Earth Landsat
Space-related People born in China
  • Anders. - William Alison (Bill) Anders American Pilot Astronaut. Born 17 October 1933. Number of Flights: 1.00. Total Time: 6.13 days.
  • Cai Jintao. - Cai Jintao Chinese Engineer. Born 1 July 1908. Died 28 November 1996.
  • Cai Qiao. - Cai Qiao Chinese Scientist. Born 11 October 1897. Died 29 July 1990.
  • Chen Quan. - Chen Quan Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan.
  • Du Jincheng. - Du Jincheng Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1949.
  • Fang Guojun. - Fang Guojun Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1934.
  • Fei Junlong. - Fei Junlong Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born May 1966. Number of Flights: 1.00. Total Time: 4.81 days.
  • Hu Zhanzi. - Hu Zhanzi Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan.
  • Jing Haipeng. - Jing Haipen Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born October 1966.
  • Li Qinglong. - Li Qinglong Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born August 1962.
  • Li Shichang. - Li Shichang Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1935.
  • Li Xun. - Li Xun Chinese Engineer. Born 20 November 1913. Died 20 March 1983.
  • Liu Buoming. - Liu Buoming Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born September 1966.
  • Liu Chongfu. - Liu Chongfu Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1941.
  • Liu Wang. - Liu Wang Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1970.
  • Lu Xiangxiao. - Lu Xiangxiao Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1936.
  • Lucid. - Dr Shannon Matilda Wells Lucid American Mission Specialist Astronaut. Born 14 January 1943. Number of Flights: 5.00. Total Time: 223.12 days.
  • Ma Zizhong. - Ma Zizhong Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan.
  • Meng Senlin. - Meng Senlin Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1947.
  • Nie Haisheng. - Nie Haisheng Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 13 October 1964. Number of Flights: 1.00. Total Time: 4.81 days.
  • Qi Faren. - Qi Faren Chinese Engineer. Born 1933.
  • Shao Zhijian. - Shao Zhijian Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1940.
  • Shen Qizhen. - Shen Qizhen Chinese Engineer. Born 2 February 1906. Died 16 June 1993.
  • Tsien. - Tsien Hsue-shen Chinese Engineer. Born 11 December 1911.
  • Wang. - Dr Taylor Gun-Jin Wang American Payload Specialist Astronaut. Born 16 June 1940. Number of Flights: 1.00. Total Time: 7.01 days.
  • Wang Fuhe. - Wang Fuhe Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan.
  • Wang Fuquan. - Wang Fuquan Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1939.
  • Wang Rongsen. - Wang Rongsen Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1934.
  • Wang Zhiyue. - Wang Zhiyue Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1941.
  • Wu Jie. - Wu Jie Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born October 1963.
  • Xue Lun. - Xue Lun Chinese Manager.
  • Yang Liwei. - Yang Liwei Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 21 June 1965. Number of Flights: 1.00. Total Time: 0.89 days.
  • Yu Guilin. - Yu Guilin Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan.
  • Zhai Zhigang. - Zhai Zhigang Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 10 October 1966.
  • Zhang Ruxiang. - Zhang Ruxiang Chinese Pilot Yuhangyuan. Born 1941.
  • Zhao Jiuzhang. - Zhao Jiuzhang Chinese Engineer. Born 15 October 1907. Died 26 October 1968.
  • Zhuang Yuzhi. - Zhuang Yuzhi Chinese Engineer. Born 27 July 1924. Died 23 March 1996.
Chronology of Events for China

1054 July 4 -

  • The Crab Nebula Supernova Level: 1.
1935 August 15 -
  • Tsien Hsue-shen leaves China to study at MIT. Program: Long March. Tsien Hsue-shen, father of Chinese rocketry and spaceflight, leaves China on a Boxer Rebellion Scholarship to study at MIT. References: 31. Level: 1.
1936 September 1 -
  • Tsien Hsue-shen enters CalTech Program: Long March. Tsien Hsue-shen, at the urging of Theodore von Karman, begins graduate studies at the California Institute of Technology. He will continue there for nearly twenty years, first as a student, finally as the Goddard Professor, becoming one of the leading rocket scientists in the United States. References: 31. Level: 1.
1949 During the Year -
  • Tsien Passenger Spaceplane Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Tsien Spaceplane 1949. Tsien Hsue-shen proposed a 22,000 kg single stage winged rocket that would carry ten passengers from New York to Los Angeles in 45 minutes. Level: 1.
1949 October 1 -
  • Communist People's Republic of China formally proclaimed by Chairman Mao Zedong Level: 1.
1950 June 6 -
  • Tsien Hsue-shen accused of being a Communist. Program: Long March. FBI agents interrogate Tsien Hsue-shen on allegations that he is a Communist. The same day his security clearance is revoked, making it virtually impossible to continue meaningful work in rocketry. The allegations seem unlikely to his associates at CalTech (his wife was the daughter of one of Chiang Kai-shek's leading military strategists). Two weeks later, Tsien announces his intention to return to China. Tsien, denied the possibility to work, becomes enmeshed in a tug-of-war between differing viewpoints in the US government bureaucracy: those that want to deport him as an undesirable alien, and those that want to keep him in the country because of what he knows. References: 31. Level: 1.
1955 September 17 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • Tsien Hsue-shen deported from the United States. Program: Long March. After five years of wrangling, and secret talks in Geneva between the Red Chinese and US governments, Tsien is deported from the United States. Upon arrival in China, he was immediately put to work as head of the Chinese missile program. He had to introduce US systems engineering approaches to Chinese engineers, and build the technical infrastructure to enable China to build rockets. References: 31. Level: 1.
1956 January 5 -
  • Institute of Mechanics founded in Beijing Tsien is director of the institute. It is equipped with mechanical desk calculators and only one telephone. Deputy Director is a Tsien protege, Dr Guo Yonghuai, who graduated with a doctorate in aeronatuical engineering from Caltech in 1946. The Director of Operations is Xu Guozhi, a systems analyst that Tsien met on the ship from America to China. Level: 1.
1956 February 17 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • Plan for missile development proposed. Program: Long March. Tsien Hsue-shen submits a secret proposal to the State Council for ballistic missile development - 'Prospectus for Establishment of a National Defence Aviation Industry'. The proposal calls for the establishment of a research facility for aeronautics and missile development. References: 87. Level: 1.
1956 March 1 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • 12 year plan for Chinese aerospace Spacecraft: Project 581. Hundreds of Soviet and Chinese scientists put together the technology portion of China's 12 year plan. Missile development is emphasized in the plan at the expense of the aircraft industry. Level: 1.
1956 May 26 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • Fifth Academy founded. Program: Long March. The Fifth Academy of the Ministry of National Defence is founded for development of ballistic missiles. Tsien is named its first Director on October 8. The Academy is established on the premises of an old hospital and two sanatoriums, with an initial staff of 100 high school graduates and 100 to 200 college graduates. Tsien teaches an 'Introduction to Rocket Technology' course while Zhuang Faggan from CalTech teaches aerodynamics. References: 87. Level: 1.
1956 September 13 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1, R-1, R-2.
  • Russian agrees to sell China two R-1 missiles Program: Long March. They were delivered in December 1956. Tsien is disgusted to find that the missiles are nothing but copies of the V-2. Something more advanced is needed, he argues to the Russians. References: 87. Level: 1.
1957 July 17 -
  • Qian Weichang denounced. Tsien denounces his former colleague Qian Weichang. Level: 1.
1957 October 15 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1, R-2.
  • Russia to assist China in missile development Program: Long March. Russian and China sign New Defense Technical Accord, whereby Russia will supply China with protoype atomic bomb and two R-2 missiles, and related technical data. Under the agreement the Soviet Union will provide to China the necessary specialists, training, and tooling for licensed production of the R-2 ballistic missile (an improved version of the V-2). References: 87. Level: 1.
1957 December 24 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1, R-2.
  • R-2 missiles arrive in China. Program: Long March. A Red Army missile battalion with two R-2's and their launchers arrive in Beijing by rail. They are secretly moved to the premises of the Fifth Academy in the middle of the night. References: 87. Level: 1.
January 1958 - Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: R-12.
  • Project 581 Spacecraft: Project 581. The first project to build a Chinese satellite is set in motion. Level: 1.
April 1958 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • Fifth Academy expansion begins. Over the next year, the People's Liberation Army transfers 3000 technical staff and cadres to the Fifth Academy and a further 300 engineers to industry. The Chinese government sends increasing numbers of Chinese engineers to Russia for training in missile technology. All of this is done in great secrecy, with correspondence being addressed only to post office box numbers. Level: 1.
1958 April 28 -
  • Tsien self-criticism An article by Tsien confessing to his mistakes was published in the People's Daily. Level: 1.
1958 May 17 - Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: R-12.
  • Project 581 pressure. Spacecraft: Project 581. Chairman Mao says that China must orbit a satellite at the earliest possible date in order to match the Americans and Russians. Level: 1.
1958 June 1 -
  • Tsien and Great Leap Forward An article by Tsien appeared in Kexue Dazhong, claiming that new methods and a new process cycle could increase agricultural production by twenty times. This led to Mao's 'Great Leap Forward', resulting in the death of millions from starvation. Level: 1.
June 1956 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-1, R-2.
  • Beginning of construction at Jiuquan missile test site Program: Long March. The 20th Corps of the People's Liberation Army begins construction of launch and tracking facilities at Jiuquan. Wells are dug, willow and poplar trees are planted, roads and housing are constructed. References: 87. Level: 1.
Second half of 1958 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • R-2 technical documentation delivered. 10,151 volumes of R-2 technical documents are delivered to Beijing. China orders 12 more R-2 missiles. 100 Soviet technicians arrive as advisors to the Chinese in production and operation of th emissiles. Level: 1.
1958 September 1 -
  • Tsien enters Congress Tsien was elected Deputy of Guangdong Province to the National People's Congress. Level: 1.
1958 September 19 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1, DF-2, DF-3 Tsien, R-2.
  • Missile development plans set. Program: Long March. Fifth Academy finalizes plan to proceed development of indigenous Dong Feng missiles (original DF-1, DF-2, DF-3 designations) References: 87. Level: 1.
1958 December 1 -
  • Tsien joins Communist Party Tsien was allowed to join the Communist Party. Level: 1.
Early 1959 - Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: R-12.
  • Chinese plan satellite launch by December 1959 Spacecraft: Project 581. Tsien and his colleagues set an initial goal of launching a satellite by the end of 1959. They see no reason to copy the antiquated R-2 missile being transferred from Russia, and want to make a great leap to an intermediate range missile capable of serving as the first stage of a satellite launcher. It very quickly becomes that this is much too ambitious and totally impossible. Level: 1.
January 1959 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • R-2 production advisors The first Soviet advisors arrive to assist the Chinese in production of the R-2 missile. Level: 1.
April 1959 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • Chinese/Russian missile talks A Chinese delegation goes to Russia to discuss delivery of more tooling and machine tools for missile production. Level: 1.
1959 June 20 - Launch Vehicle: DF-2, K-13, Kosmos 2, P-15.
  • Decision to withhold R-12 and nuclear warhead drawing package from China over Sidewinder affair Spacecraft: Project 581. The Soviet Central Committee advises China it will not provide prototype or drawings of atomic bombs as agreed previously. Khrushchev promised China that he would provide the drawing package for the R-12 IRBM as soon as testing was completed. However then came the affair of the Sidewinder. At the end of 1958 or early 1959 a complete missile fell into the hands of the Chinese. They promised to provide it to the Russians, but then dragged their feet. They were finally told in February 1959 that unless they provided the Sidewinder, they would not be given the R-12 package. The missile was finally delivered but it was found that the key crystal in the infrared homing sensor was missing. The Chinese had also been caught disassembling a P-15 cruise missile at a training facility in China. It had taken the Russian trainers two days to get it reassembled correctly. Therefore on June 20 1959 the decision was taken not to transfer the R-12 or the promised nuclear warhead design to China.

    The Soviets created a new design bureau to copy the Sidewinder. Fabrication of the crystal for the infrared sensor was the main obstacle. The initial production batches had a 99% rejection rate. A state commission was set up to get to the bottom of the problem, but couldn’t find a solution. The main problem seemed to be low-quality ore provided by the mines. References: 87. Level: 1.

July 1959 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • Chinese/Russian missile talks A second Chinese delegation goes to Russia to press for delivery of more tooling and machine tools for missile production. Level: 1.
1959 September 15 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • First missile factories built. Program: Long March. First Chinese missile production factories built: Shenyang (missile frames) Nancheng (engines). References: 87. Level: 1.
October 1959 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • Project 1059 Nie Rongzhen, Senior Commander of the Revolution responsible for strategic weapons, orders the Fifth Academy to quit wasting time on trying to leapfrog Soviet technology and concentrate on copying the Russian R-2. Code name for the project is 1059. Level: 1.
Late 1959 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • R-2 production obstacles Spacecraft: Project 581. 14 manufacturers and 1400 industrial work units were needed to manufacture the R-2 engines alone. Basic materials were difficult to get. Some were imported; others substituted. Eventually 40% of the parts of the missile used substitute materials, but many of these replacements proved to be inadequate. Machine tools were not available, and the missile frame was formed manually by human muscle power. Inert gas arc welding technology had to be developed. Soviet style factories were being erected for the production of the missile. Level: 1.
1960 February 19 - Launch Site: Laogang. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7. Model: T-7M.
  • Test mission Agency: Shanghai. Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi). The Shanghai design institute completed the first subscale experimental model of the T-7 sounding rocket. This would use a solid booster and liquid propellant sustainer stage. The rocket was fuelled using a bicycle pump. Launched from Laogang, on the coast, the missile reached 8 km altitude. References: 2. Level: 1.
1960 April 18 - Launch Vehicle: T-7.
  • T-7 motor test Tsien reviewed rocket development in Shanghai and views a T-7 motor test. Level: 1.
Summer 1960 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • Beijing-Jiuquan rail link The railway from Beijing to the Chinese missile launch site at Jiuquan is completed. The trip to the site takes four to five days. Level: 1.
1960 August 12 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1, DF-2, Kosmos 2, R-2.
  • Soviet/China break. In the preceding months relations between the Soviet advisors and Chinese engineers had been strained by increasing Soviet secrecy. The Russians catch Chinese students at the Moscow Aviation Institute stealing restricted missile data. Finally Khrushchev declared the suspension of military assistance to China. All 1,343 Soviet specialists are withdrawn from the Fifth Academy in Beijing and return to Russia. They leave behind 343 uncompleted contracts. A total of 257 technical development projects were cancelled as a result. Level: 1.
1960 August 23 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1, DF-2, Kosmos 2, R-2.
  • Last Russian advisers leave China. Program: Long March. The last Russian technical advisers are withdrawn from China. References: 87. Level: 1.
1960 September 1 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-2. Model: R-2.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). The rocket was built in the Soviet Union but used Chinese propellants. This launch took place just a month after all Soviet experts were withdrawn from China. References: 2. Level: 1.
1960 September 1 - Launch Site: Shijiedu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7.
  • Test mission Agency: Shanghai. Apogee: 60 km (37 mi). First launch of the all-up missile. References: 2. Level: 1.
1960 October 20 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • DF-1 launch preparations Tsien goes to Jiuquan to supervise preparations for launch of the first Chinese-built R-2. Level: 1.
1960 November 5 - 01:00 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). First launch of all-Chinese version of Russian R-2, model 1059. Radio guidance was used. Nie Rongzhen is present to observe the event. References: 2. Level: 1.
1960 November 14 - Launch Vehicle: DF-3.
  • DF-3 ICBM development begun. Program: Long March. Tsien appoints himself head of the DF-3 project - a quantum leap to build a 10,000 km range liquid oxygen/kerosene propellant intercontinental ballistic missile. The objective proves much too ambitious and is eventually cancelled. It is the last missile project Tsien is allowed to manage. References: 87. Level: 1.
1960 December 1 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1960 December 1 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-1.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). Two further launches are made from Jiuquan. References: 2. Level: 1.
During 1962 -
  • First Chinese trainees in satellite technology Spacecraft: DFH-1. Four engineers from the Shanghai Institute of Machine and Electrical Design receive the first Chinese training in satellite design. Level: 1.
Early 1962 - Launch Vehicle: DF-4.
  • Chinese project management Tsien introduced a computer tool for management of Chinese aerospace development projects analogous to the American PERT program. Level: 1.
1962 February 1 -
  • Communist China and Soviet Union split in conflict over Communist ideology. Level: 1.
1962 March 21 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-2. Model: DF-2. FAILURE: Failure of guidance and engine mounting. Impacted after 69 seconds of flight.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). First DF-2 launch attempt. The rocket impacted the earth after only 69 seconds of flight. Fundamental design errors were discovered in calculating flexing of the rocket in flight, placement of the guidance system, and engine mounting. The missile was completely redesigned for reduced thrust. References: 2. Level: 1.
1963 December 1 - Launch Site: Shijiedu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7. Model: T-7A.
  • Test mission Agency: Shanghai. Apogee: 115 km (71 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1964 February 6 -
  • Tsien and Mao Tsien tutors Mao on science. This is one of only six times that Tsien actually met Mao. Level: 1.
1964 June 29 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-2. Model: DF-2.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). This followed a two-year complete redesign and test program following the first launch failure in 1962. The reduced-thrust missile had a range of 1050 km with a 1550 kg warhead, barely enough to reach Japan. References: 2. Level: 1.
1964 July 9 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-2. Model: DF-2.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1964 July 11 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-2. Model: DF-2.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1964 July 19 - Launch Site: Shijiedu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7. Model: T-7A-S.
  • Life Science (mice) Biological mission Agency: Shanghai. Apogee: 70 km (43 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1964 September 12 - Launch Vehicle: CZ, DF-1, DF-2, DF-3, DF-3 Tsien, DF-4.
  • Chinese missiles redesignated and new development plan adopted. Program: Long March. Tsien had conducted a series of meetings with the Chinese leadership during the year to redefine China's missile development plans. There are clashes between Tsien, who favours an American engineering approach, and his staff, who were trained in Russian and favour the Soviet approach. Finally the missiles were defined by their target objectives, and a new development plan was adopted, with definite goals. The 1059 missile (copy of Russian R-2) was redesignated DF-1. The DF-2 was to be improved to carry an atomic bomb to a range sufficient to hit Japan. The DF-3 ICBM was cancelled, and the new DF-3 project would involve development of a nuclear-tipped missile capable of reaching the Philippines (earlier referred to as the DF-1). The DF-4 was to be capable of hitting Guam, and the DF-5 would be an ICBM capable of reaching the United States. The DF-2, DF-3 and DF-4 would use strap-down accelerometer guidance packages, while the DF-5 was to be equipped with a full-fledged inertial guidance unit. References: 87. Level: 1.
1964 October 16 - Launch Vehicle: DF-2. Model: DF-2A.
  • First Chinese atomic bomb tested. Program: Long March. The warhead had a yield of 20 kilotons. References: 87. Level: 1.
1964 November 4 - Launch Vehicle: DF-2. Model: DF-2A.
  • Go-ahead for DF-2A. Program: Long March. Decision to proceed with DF-2A extended range version of DF-2 References: 87. Level: 1.
1965 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7.
  • DFH test Technology test Agency: PRCAS. Apogee: 83 km (51 mi). References: 2. Level: 2.
January 1965 - Launch Vehicle: CZ-1.
  • Project 651 Spacecraft: DFH-1. Tsien presents his plan for a Chinese satellite to the Central Committee. Level: 1.
1965 April 1 - Launch Vehicle: HY-1.
  • HY missile development Shenguan is authorised to develop and produce a missile based on the Soviet P-15 ('Styx') cruise missile (later designated Haiyang). Level: 1.
1965 April 29 - Launch Vehicle: CZ-1.
  • Chinese satellite plans. Spacecraft: DFH-1. Tsien says he can orbit a Chiense satellite in 1970 or 1971. Level: 1.
1965 June 1 - Launch Site: Shijiedu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7. Model: T-7A-S.
  • Life Science (mice) Biological mission Agency: Shanghai. Apogee: 70 km (43 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1965 June 5 - Launch Site: Shijiedu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7. Model: T-7A-S.
  • Life Science (mice) Biological mission Agency: Shanghai. Apogee: 70 km (43 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1965 August 10 - Launch Vehicle: CZ-1.
  • Project 651 Spacecraft: DFH-1. Zhou En Lai approves the plan for the construction and launch of China's first satellite. Level: 1.
November 1965 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-2. Model: DF-2A.
  • First successful test of DF-2A. Agency: PRC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). First launch of redesigned DF-2. The flight demonstrated a 20% improvement in range for the same 1500 kg payload, and replaced the radio guidance of the DF-2 with an autonoumous gyroscopic system. References: 2. Level: 1.
1966 January 4 - Launch Vehicle: DF-4.
  • Chinese ICBM plans Tsien proposes to add electronic countermeasures and other penetration aids to the DF-5 ICBM in order to defeat the planned American ABM system. Level: 1.
May 1966 - Launch Vehicle: CZ-1.
  • DFH-1 satellite defined. Spacecraft: DFH-1. The satellite will be launched by the CZ-1 launch vehicle, a DFH-2 IRBM with a new upper stage. Level: 1.
1966 June 6 - Launch Vehicle: CZ-1.
  • Cultural Revolution Tsien is now head of the Seventh Ministry of Machine Building (the former Fifth Academy). Cadres accuse Tsien of spreading Nazi propaganda in China after his visit to Germany in 1946. Level: 1.
1966 July 14 - Launch Site: Shijiedu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7. Model: T-7A-S2.
  • Life Science (dog) Biological mission Agency: Shanghai. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1966 July 28 - Launch Site: Shijiedu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7. Model: T-7A-S2.
  • Life Science (dog) Biological mission Agency: Shanghai. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1966 October 27 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-2. Model: DF-2A.
  • Nuclear test Agency: PRC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). DF-2A launched with a 1290 kg, 12 kt warhead from Jiuquan flew over a range of 800 km to Lop Nor, where the warhead successfully exploded. The Ninth Academy was responsible for development of the nuclear package. Tsien protégé Guo Yonghuai was the liaison between the Fifth and Ninth Academies for the development. References: 2. Level: 1.
1966 December 26 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-3. Model: DF-3.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC MAI. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1967 January 23 - Launch Vehicle: CZ-1.
  • Tsien removed Spacecraft: DFH-1. Tsien was overthrown by the 916 (Mao) Clique. Ye Zhengguang, a missile engineer, with the approval off Zhou En Lai and Marshall Nie, confronts Tsien and removes him from his post as head of the Seventh Ministry. Minister of Machine Building Wang Bingzhang was also deposed. However Tsien was protected by the leadership, made a 'Vice Minister', and claimed he supports the coup. Wang refused to cooperate and would not hand over the chops of his office to the 916 Clique. Level: 1.
1967 June 17 -
  • China conducts first thermonuclear bomb test. Program: Long March. References: 87. Level: 1.
1968 June 8 - Launch Vehicle: CZ-1.
  • Height of Cultural Revolution Spacecraft: DFH-1. Yao Tongbin, a metallurgist at he Seventh Ministry, is beaten to death by Red Guards. Zhou En Lai intervenes, putting the top fifty missile scientists under this protection. Level: 1.
1968 August 8 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7. Model: T-7/GF-01A.
  • GF-01A satellite test Agency: CAST. Apogee: 311 km (193 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1968 August 20 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7. Model: T-7/GF-01A.
  • GF-01A satellite test Agency: CAST. Apogee: 311 km (193 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1969 - Launch Site: Harbin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-3. Model: DF-3.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC MAI. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. Level: 2.
1969 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7.
  • DFH test Technology test Agency: CAST. Apogee: 81 km (50 mi). References: 2. Level: 2.
1969 June 1 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7. Model: T-7A.
  • FSW satellite technology test Agency: CAST. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1969 July 1 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7. Model: T-7A.
  • FSW satellite technology test Agency: CAST. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1969 November 16 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ-1. Model: CZ-1. FAILURE: The program distributor in the second stage broke down. The rocket crashed into the earth within view of the launch site after 69 seconds of flight.
  • First Chinese satellite launch attempt ends in failure. Payload: DFH 1. Mass: 170 kg (370 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: DFH-1. COSPAR: F691116Z. The launch vehicle arrived at the site on 18 March 1969. The objective was to launch China's first satellite before Japan lofted its counterpart. Ren Xinmin had obtained this specific order from Deng Hsiao Peng. Great difficulties were encountered in the middle of the Cultural Revolution, including the sending of most of the satellite engineers to work on irrigation ditch construction in the provinces. The skirt for the satellite, designed to make it easily visible to ground observors, had to be made from a special silk produced in a factory without the knowledge of the Red Guards. The engineers went by bus to a department store in Beijing to study an imported folding umbrella as a model for the deployment mechanism -- they could not afford to buy it. The entire launch was kept secret until a documentary was released in 2001. References: 5. Level: 1.
1970 January 30 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-4.
  • Agency: PRC MAI. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). First test of prototype DF-3 (perhaps same configuration as CZ-1); not deployed. References: 2. Level: 1.
1970 April 24 - Launch Vehicle: CZ-1.
  • DFH-1 satellite launch authorised. Spacecraft: DFH-1. Mao personally authorises the launch. Level: 1.
1970 April 24 - 13:35 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ-1. Model: CZ-1.
  • DFH Mao 1 Payload: DFH 1. Mass: 173 kg (381 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: DFH-1. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 434 km (269 mi). Apogee: 2,162 km (1,343 mi). Inclination: 68.40 deg. Period: 111.60 min. COSPAR: 1970-034A. USAF Sat Cat: 4382. The final campaign to launch China's first satellite began on April 1, 1970, when two DFH-1 satellites and the CZ-1 rocket arrived by train at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre. This was over a year after the first attempt in 1969. Ren Xinmin was project leader and Qi Faren was leader of the DFH-1 experiment team. On April 2 Premier Zhou Enlai called a special meeting in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing for a final readiness review of the satellite and the launch vehicle. Zhou wanted special guarantees that the satellite would transmit the march 'The East is Red' from orbit.

    On the morning of April 24, 1970, the first and second stages of CZ-1 were loaded with propellant and stacked. The satellite was mated to the spin-stabilized solid-propellant third stage, and the launcher entered the final eight hours of launch preparation. Weather forecast for the launch at 9:30 p.m. called for clouds at above 7,000 meters and a wind speed of less than 4 to 5 meters per second.

    The historic launch came at 9:35 p.m. local time (13:35 UTC). Upon hearing the command "ignition", a launch controller pressed the button to start the rocket engines. The three-stage CZ-1, which was 29.46 meters tall and had a maximum diameter of 2.25 meters, lifted off the launch pad with a thrust of 104 tonnes. Liftoff weight of the CZ-1 was 81.5 tonnes. Rocket expert Shen Jianan recounted that "..as soon as I saw the liftoff on the TV screen inside the bunker, I ran outside. I could only see the beautiful rocket lighting up the night sky and streaking towards the southeast. I ran back inside to listen to the transmissions. Broadcasting on the speaker were status reports like 'capturing target', 'nominal tracking', 'nominal flight', 'nominal second and third stage separation'..." Thirteen minutes after launch, at 9:48 p.m., mission control announced "...satellite and rocket stage separation, satellite enters orbit...the bunker was filled with cheers".

    China became the fifth nation after the former Soviet Union, the United States, France and Japan to achieve an indigenous space launch capability. At 9:50 p.m., the National Broadcasting Bureau announced the acquisition of the tune 'East is Red' from the satellite loud and clear. In the following days, the People's Central Broadcasting radio and newspapers in Beijing announced and printed worldwide times of DFH-1 and CZ-1 third stage passages, and directions of travel in the sky. Senior officials in Beijing dispatched a chartered plane to JSLC to bring back Qi and other scientists. In the International Labour Day celebration on May 1, Chairman Mao and Premier Zhou warmly welcomed them at the Tiananmen Square. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.

1970 May 1 -
  • Shuguang Group selected. China approved Project 714 on July 14, 1970 to develop the Shuguang manned spacecraft, to be launched in 1973. Shuguang group selection bagan in late 1970. Initial screening resulted 88 candidates from PLA pilots. After further medical and political testing in the first half of 1971, 20 finalists were selected. One candidate did not report for training for reasons that were never divulged. The program was cancelled in late 1971. Level: 1.
1971 March 3 - 12:15 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ-1. Model: CZ-1.
  • SJ-1 Payload: Shi Jian 1. Mass: 221 kg (487 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Comsat. Spacecraft: DFH-1. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 265 km (164 mi). Apogee: 1,833 km (1,138 mi). Inclination: 69.80 deg. Period: 106.10 min. COSPAR: 1971-018A. USAF Sat Cat: 5007. Decay Date: 1979-06-17. Similar in appearance to the American Telstar and conducted communications technology tests. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1971 September 10 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Research and Development Suborbital Flight References: 2. Level: 1.
1971 September 12 -
  • Death of Lin Bao Lin Bao and his entourage are killed when their aircraft crashes, purportedly while trying to leave the country. Wang Bingzhang was associated with the coup plotters, and sent to prison for several years. Level: 1.
1972 August 10 - 00:32 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701-02.
  • Shiyan Peizhong Agency: PRC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). Research and Development Suborbital Flight References: 2. Level: 1.
1973 September 18 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701-03. FAILURE: Failure.
  • JSSW 1 Payload: JSSW 1. Spacecraft: JSSW. Agency: PRC. COSPAR: F730918A. References: 279. Level: 1.
1974 July 14 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701-04. FAILURE: Vehicle lost attitude stability and destroyed by range safety.
  • JSSW 2 Payload: JSSW 2. Spacecraft: JSSW. Agency: PRC. COSPAR: F740714A. References: 279. Level: 1.
1974 November 5 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2A. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2A CZ2A-1 (3). FAILURE: Cable carrying pitch rate gyro signal disconnected.
  • FSW-0 Payload: FSW-0 No. A. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: PRC. COSPAR: F741105A. Decay Date: 1974-11-05. References: 5. Level: 1.
1975 July 26 - 13:28 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701-05.
  • JSSW 3 Payload: JSSW 3. Mass: 1,107 kg (2,440 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: JSSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 190 km (110 mi). Apogee: 455 km (282 mi). Inclination: 69.00 deg. Period: 90.90 min. COSPAR: 1975-070A. USAF Sat Cat: 8053. Decay Date: 1975-09-14. Photo surveillance; radio transmission. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1975 November 26 - 03:29 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-1 (4).
  • FSW-0 No. 1 Payload: FSW-0 No. 01. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 183 km (113 mi). Apogee: 483 km (300 mi). Inclination: 63.00 deg. Period: 91.10 min. COSPAR: 1975-111A. USAF Sat Cat: 8452. Duration: 2.00 days. Decay Date: 1975-12-29. First orbital test of Chinese recoverable photo surveillance satellite. The spacecraft was brought down early, after three days in orbit, due to problems with the attitude control system cold gas supply. Along the skirt of the return capsule some wires and instruments were burnt during re-entry and capsule impacted far from its planned landing point. However usable film was obtained from the capsule. The Chinese Academy of Space Technology organised a team to determine the cause, and improvements were made in the next spacecraft of the model. Additional Details: FSW-0 No. 1(1764). References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1975 December 16 - 09:19 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701-06.
  • JSSW 4 Payload: JSSW 4. Mass: 1,110 kg (2,440 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: JSSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 186 km (115 mi). Apogee: 387 km (240 mi). Inclination: 69.00 deg. Period: 90.30 min. COSPAR: 1975-119A. USAF Sat Cat: 8488. Decay Date: 1976-01-27. Photo surveillance; radio transmission. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1976 June 1 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-4.
  • Date uncertain. First test of DF-4. Program: Long March. References: 87. Level: 1.
1976 August 30 - 11:53 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701-07.
  • JSSW 5 Payload: JSSW 5. Mass: 1,108 kg (2,442 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: JSSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 195 km (121 mi). Apogee: 2,145 km (1,332 mi). Inclination: 69.20 deg. Period: 108.80 min. COSPAR: 1976-087A. USAF Sat Cat: 9394. Decay Date: 1978-11-25. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1976 November 10 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701-08. FAILURE: Failure.
  • JSSW 6 Payload: JSSW 6. Spacecraft: JSSW. Agency: PRC. COSPAR: F761110A. References: 279. Level: 1.
1976 December 7 - 04:38 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-2 (5).
  • FSW-0 No. 2 Payload: FSW-0 No. 02. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Apogee: 489 km (303 mi). Inclination: 59.40 deg. Period: 91.10 min. COSPAR: 1976-117A. USAF Sat Cat: 9587. Duration: 2.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-01-02. Photo surveillance; film capsule recovered 9 December. First completely successful test of the FSW spy satellite. Many improvements in comparison to the first FSW orbited. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1977 September 14 - 00:15 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701(II)-01.
  • DDDS test Agency: PRC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1978 January 26 - 04:58 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-3 (6).
  • FSW-0 No. 3 Payload: FSW-0 No. 03. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 186 km (115 mi). Apogee: 507 km (315 mi). Inclination: 57.00 deg. Period: 91.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-011A. USAF Sat Cat: 10611. Duration: 5.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-02-07. Photo surveillance; film capsule; capsule returned January 30. Second fully successful FSW mission. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1978 February - Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2 Spaceplane Launcher.
  • First public announcement of a Chinese manned program Spacecraft: Chinese Manned Capsule 1978. First public announcement of a Chinese manned program came in February, 1978. By November the head of the Chinese Space Agency, Jen Hsin-Min, confirmed that China was working on a manned space capsule and a 'Skylab' space station. Level: 1.
1978 April 15 - 16:39 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701(II)-02.
  • DDDS test Agency: PRC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1979 January 7 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Other sources say launch was from Taiyuan. References: 2. Level: 1.
1979 July 15 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Other sources say launch was from Taiyuan. References: 2. Level: 1.
1979 July 28 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 XCZ-1-02. FAILURE: Second stage failure.
  • SJ-1 Payload: Shi Jian 1. Mass: 221 kg (487 lb). Spacecraft: SJ. Agency: PRC. COSPAR: F790728A. The SJ-1 was similar in appearance to the American Telstar and conducted communications technology tests. References: 279. Level: 1.
1979 August 21 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Other sources say launch was from Taiyuan on 2 August. References: 2. Level: 1.
1979 September 4 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Other sources say launch was from Taiyuan. References: 2. Level: 1.
1979 November 26 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Other sources say launch was from Taiyuan on 15 October. References: 2. Level: 1.
1980 January - Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2 Spaceplane Launcher.
  • Chinese astronauts in training Spacecraft: Chinese Manned Capsule 1978. The Chinese press reported a visit with the Chinese astronaut trainees at the Chinese manned spaceflight training centre. Photographs appeared of the astronauts in training. Pressure suited astronauts were shown in pressure chamber tests. Other trainees were shown at the controls of a space shuttle-like spaceplane cockpit. Level: 1.
1980 February 15 - Launch Site: Taiyuan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5.
  • Last DF-5 partial range test. Program: Long March. Other sources do not list this test. References: 87. Level: 1.
1980 May 18 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1980 May 21 - 02:00 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1980 August 15 - Launch Site: Jingyu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-4.
  • First DF-4 test from Jingyu. Program: Long March. First launch from Jingyu test site. References: 87. Level: 1.
1980 October 15 - Launch Site: Jingyu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-4.
  • Second DF-4 test from Jingyu. Program: Long March. References: 87. Level: 1.
1980 December -
  • Work on early Chinese manned spacecraft ends Spacecraft: Chinese Manned Capsule 1978. Wang Zhuanshan, the Secretary General of the New China Space Research Society and Chief Engineer of the Space Centre of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, announced that Chinese manned flight was being postponed because of its cost. Fundamental economic development was given priority. Level: 1.
1981 September 19 - 21:28 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 XCZ-1-02.
  • SJ-2A Payload: Shi Jian 2B. Mass: 257 kg (566 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: SJ. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 232 km (144 mi). Apogee: 1,598 km (992 mi). Inclination: 59.50 deg. Period: 103.30 min. COSPAR: 1981-093A. USAF Sat Cat: 12842. Decay Date: 1981-09-26. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
  • SJ-2B Payload: Shi Jian C. Mass: 28 kg (61 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: SJ. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 233 km (144 mi). Apogee: 1,615 km (1,003 mi). Inclination: 59.40 deg. Period: 103.50 min. COSPAR: 1981-093B. USAF Sat Cat: 12843. Decay Date: 1982-10-06. Balloon for drag studies. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
  • SJ-2 Payload: Shi Jian 2. Mass: 483 kg (1,064 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: SJ. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 232 km (144 mi). Apogee: 1,608 km (999 mi). Inclination: 59.40 deg. Period: 103.40 min. COSPAR: 1981-093D. USAF Sat Cat: 12845. Decay Date: 1982-08-17. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1981 December 7 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Other sources say launch was from Taiyuan. References: 2. Level: 1.
1982 April 30 - Launch Site: Yellow Sea Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 35.0 N x 125.0 E. Launch Vehicle: JL-1. LV Configuration: JL-1 CSS-NX-3.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1982 September 9 - 07:19 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-4 (7).
  • FSW-0 No. 4 Payload: FSW-0 No. 04. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Apogee: 392 km (243 mi). Inclination: 63.00 deg. Period: 90.20 min. COSPAR: 1982-090A. USAF Sat Cat: 13521. Duration: 5.00 days. Decay Date: 1982-09-21. Photo surveillance; film capsule recovered 14 September. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1982 October 12 - Launch Site: Yellow Sea Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 35.0 N x 125.0 E. Launch Vehicle: JL-1.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1983 August 19 - 06:00 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-5 (8).
  • FSW-0 No. 5 Payload: FSW-0 No. 05. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 170 km (100 mi). Apogee: 493 km (306 mi). Inclination: 63.30 deg. Period: 91.20 min. COSPAR: 1983-086A. USAF Sat Cat: 14288. Duration: 5.00 days. Decay Date: 1983-09-03. Photo surveillance; film capsule recovered 24 August. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1984 January 29 - 12:25 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-3. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 3 CZ3-1 (9). FAILURE: Third stage failed to ignite.
  • STTW-T1 Payload: STTW-T1. Mass: 900 kg (1,980 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DFH-2. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 484 km (300 mi). Apogee: 6,446 km (4,005 mi). Inclination: 36.10 deg. Period: 162.00 min. COSPAR: 1984-008A. USAF Sat Cat: 14670. First launch of a prototype DFH-2 communications satellite. Payload stranded in low earth orbit, but all subsystems including the communications payload were completely checked and tested. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1984 April 8 - 11:20 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-3. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 3 CZ3-2 (10).
  • STTW-T2 Payload: STTW-T2. Mass: 900 kg (1,980 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DFH-2. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 35,733 km (22,203 mi). Apogee: 35,796 km (22,242 mi). Inclination: 6.10 deg. Period: 1,435.00 min. COSPAR: 1984-035A. USAF Sat Cat: 14899. Completed Operations Date: 1988-06-28. Prototype of DFH-2 communications satellite. After on-orbit testing and check out of the satellite and the ground stations, the satellite system was declared operational, and was used experimentally for the transmission of television, telephone, and data messages with good results. It stayed in operation for more than four years, exceeding the design life of three years by a comfortable margin. Operated in geosynchronous orbit at 125 deg E in 1984-1988. As of 4 September 2001 located at 40.81 deg E drifting at 0.320 deg W per day. As of 2007 Feb 27 located at 133.57E drifting at 0.079W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1984 September 12 - 05:44 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-6 (11).
  • FSW-0 No. 6 Payload: FSW-0 No. 06. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Apogee: 398 km (247 mi). Inclination: 67.90 deg. Period: 90.20 min. COSPAR: 1984-098A. USAF Sat Cat: 15279. Duration: 5.00 days. Decay Date: 1984-09-29. Photo surveillance; film capsule recovered 17 September. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1985 May 1 - Launch Site: Taiyuan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-21.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1985 September 28 - Launch Site: Yellow Sea Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 35.0 N x 125.0 E. Launch Vehicle: JL-1. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1985 October 15 - Launch Vehicle: JL-1.
  • Reported first launch of JL-1 SLBM. Partial failure? Program: Long March. References: 87. Level: 1.
1985 October 21 - 05:04 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-7 (12).
  • FSW-0 No. 7 Payload: FSW-0 No. 07. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 171 km (106 mi). Apogee: 393 km (244 mi). Inclination: 63.00 deg. Period: 90.20 min. COSPAR: 1985-096A. USAF Sat Cat: 16177. Duration: 5.00 days. Decay Date: 1985-11-07. Fanhui Shi Weixing photo surveillance satellite; film capsule recovered 26 October. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1986 February 1 - 12:37 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-3. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 3 CZ3-3 (13).
  • STTW 1 Payload: STTW 1. Mass: 1,024 kg (2,257 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DFH-2. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 35,774 km (22,228 mi). Apogee: 35,819 km (22,256 mi). Inclination: 9.80 deg. Period: 1,436.60 min. COSPAR: 1986-010A. USAF Sat Cat: 16526. Completed Operations Date: 1990-06-01. Second successful DFH-2 launch. Also designated STW-2, the satellite was positioned at 103 deg E. In comparison to the first two DFH-2's, a parabolic antenna reflector replaced the horn antenna. Operated in geosynchronous orbit at 103 deg E in 1986-1990. As of 3 September 2001 located at 102.75 deg E drifting at 0.030 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 46.50E drifting at 0.019E degrees per day. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1986 October 6 - 05:40 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-8 (14).
  • FSW-0 No. 8 Payload: FSW-0 No. 08. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 169 km (105 mi). Apogee: 337 km (209 mi). Inclination: 57.00 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1986-076A. USAF Sat Cat: 17001. Duration: 5.00 days. Decay Date: 1986-10-23. Fanhui Shi Weixing recoverable satellite; capsule re-entered October 11 after five day mission. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1987 August 5 - 06:39 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-9 (15).
  • FSW-0 No. 9 Payload: FSW-0 No. 09. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 169 km (105 mi). Apogee: 366 km (227 mi). Inclination: 63.00 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1987-067A. USAF Sat Cat: 18306. Duration: 5.00 days. Decay Date: 1987-08-23. Fanhui Shi Weixing recoverable satellite; carried microgravity experiments; return capsule recovered August 10 after five days in space. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1987 September 1 - Launch Site: Taiyuan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-21.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. Level: 2.
1987 September 9 - 07:15 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-10 (16).
  • FSW-1 No. 1 Payload: FSW-1 No. 01. Mass: 2,100 kg (4,600 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 181 km (112 mi). Apogee: 222 km (137 mi). Inclination: 63.00 deg. Period: 88.50 min. COSPAR: 1987-075A. USAF Sat Cat: 18341. Duration: 8.00 days. Decay Date: 1987-10-04. Fanhui Shi Weixing recoverable satellite; return capsule recovered September 17 after eight days in space. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1988? - Launch Site: Taiyuan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-15.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1988 March 7 - 12:41 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-3. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 3 CZ3-4 (17).
  • Zhongxing-1 Payload: STTW 2. Mass: 1,024 kg (2,257 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DFH-2. Agency: Chinasat. Perigee: 35,786 km (22,236 mi). Apogee: 35,789 km (22,238 mi). Inclination: 0.50 deg. Period: 1,436.20 min. COSPAR: 1988-014A. USAF Sat Cat: 18922. Completed Operations Date: 1997-07-01. Operated in geosynchronous orbit at 87 deg E in 1988-1997. As of 28 August 2001 located at 87.94 deg E drifting at 0.038 deg E per day. As of 2007 Mar 11 located at 64.00E drifting at 0.067E degrees per day. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1988 August 5 - 07:29 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-11 (18).
  • FSW-1 No. 2 Payload: FSW-1 No. 02. Mass: 2,100 kg (4,600 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 204 km (126 mi). Apogee: 311 km (193 mi). Inclination: 63.00 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1988-067A. USAF Sat Cat: 19368. Duration: 8.00 days. Decay Date: 1988-08-13. German crystal growth experiment in recoverable capsule. Results marred by hard landing. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1988 September 6 - 20:30 GMT - Launch Site: Taiyuan. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-4A. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 4 CZ4-1 (19).
  • FY-1A Payload: Feng Yun 1A. Mass: 750 kg (1,650 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: FY-1. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 875 km (543 mi). Apogee: 895 km (556 mi). Inclination: 98.80 deg. Period: 102.70 min. COSPAR: 1988-080A. USAF Sat Cat: 19467. Experimental weather satellite. First use of new launch site and launch vehicle. Failed after 38 days due to problems with attitude control system. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1988 September 27 - Launch Site: Yellow Sea Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 35.0 N x 125.0 E. Launch Vehicle: JL-1.
  • First JL-1 SLBM launch. Program: Long March. First successful JL-1 launch, impacting 123.53 deg N, 28.13 deg E. References: 2, 87. Level: 1.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. Level: 2.
1988 December 19 - Launch Site: Haikou. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Zhinui. LV Configuration: Zhinui ZN-1.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 70 km (43 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1988 December 20 - Launch Site: Haikou. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Zhinui. LV Configuration: Zhinui ZN-1.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 70 km (43 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1988 December 22 - Launch Site: Haikou. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Zhinui. LV Configuration: Zhinui ZN-1.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 70 km (43 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1988 December 22 - 12:40 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-3. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 3 CZ3-5 (20).
  • Zhongxing-2 Payload: STTW 3. Mass: 1,024 kg (2,257 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DFH-2. Agency: Chinasat. Perigee: 35,787 km (22,236 mi). Apogee: 35,791 km (22,239 mi). Inclination: 0.10 deg. Period: 1,436.20 min. COSPAR: 1988-111A. USAF Sat Cat: 19710. Operated in geosynchronous orbit at 110 deg E in 1989-1999. As of 27 August 2001 located at 91.92 deg E drifting at 0.244 deg E per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 83.40E drifting at 0.283W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1988 December 24 - Launch Site: Haikou. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Zhinui. LV Configuration: Zhinui ZN-1.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 70 km (43 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1990 February 4 - 12:28 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-3. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 3 CZ3-6 (21).
  • Zhongxing-3 Payload: STTW 4. Mass: 1,024 kg (2,257 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DFH-2. Agency: Chinasat. Perigee: 35,783 km (22,234 mi). Apogee: 35,795 km (22,241 mi). Inclination: 0.00 deg. Period: 1,436.30 min. COSPAR: 1990-011A. USAF Sat Cat: 20473. Completed Operations Date: 1998-07-01. National operational communications satellite. Designation 1990-2. Operated in geosynchronous orbit at 98 deg E in 1990-1998. As of 4 September 2001 located at 52.36 deg E drifting at 0.045 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 96.88E drifting at 0.061W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1990 April 7 - 13:30 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-3. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 3 CZ3-7 (22).
  • Asiasat 1 Program: Asiasat. Mass: 1,442 kg (3,179 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: HS 376. Manufacturer: Hughes Space and Communications, El Segundo. Agency: Asiasat. Perigee: 35,786 km (22,236 mi). Apogee: 35,789 km (22,238 mi). Inclination: 2.70 deg. Period: 1,436.20 min. COSPAR: 1990-030A. USAF Sat Cat: 20558. First commercial Chinese launch; Stationed at 105 deg E; formerly Westar 6 (retrieved by STS-51A and refurbished). Fixed-satellite telecommunication services and transmission of television signals. Operational life about 10 years. Orbital position 105.5E. Owner/operator: Asia Satellite Telecommunications Co, Ltd. 23-24/F, East Exchange Tower, 38-40 Leighton Rd, Hong K ong. Telex 68345 ASAT HX Fax 852 576 4111. Operated in geosynchronous orbit at 105 deg E in 1990-1999; 122 deg E in 1999-2000. As of 3 September 2001 located at 121.97 deg E drifting at 0.009 deg E per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 23.96E drifting at 3.706W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1990 July 16 - 00:40 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2E. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2E CZ2E-1 (23).
  • HS-601 Model Agency: PRC. COSPAR: 1990-059xx. First launch of new Chinese launch vehicle. References: 2, 279. Level: 1.
1990 September 3 - 00:53 GMT - Launch Site: Taiyuan. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-4A. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 4 CZ4-2 (24).
  • FY-1B Payload: Feng Yun 1B. Mass: 881 kg (1,942 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: FY-1. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 875 km (543 mi). Apogee: 897 km (557 mi). Inclination: 98.80 deg. Period: 102.70 min. COSPAR: 1990-081A. USAF Sat Cat: 20788. Experimental weather satellite. Operated for over a year. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
  • QQW 1 Payload: QQW 1A. Mass: 4.00 kg (8.80 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: SJ. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 789 km (490 mi). Apogee: 811 km (503 mi). Inclination: 99.00 deg. Period: 100.90 min. COSPAR: 1990-081B. USAF Sat Cat: 20789. Decay Date: 1991-03-11. QQW atmospheric balloon. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
  • QQW 2 Payload: QQW 1B. Mass: 4.00 kg (8.80 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: SJ. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 596 km (370 mi). Apogee: 629 km (390 mi). Inclination: 99.00 deg. Period: 97.00 min. COSPAR: 1990-081C. USAF Sat Cat: 20790. Decay Date: 1991-07-24. QQW atmospheric balloon. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1990 October 5 - 06:14 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-12 (25).
  • FSW-1 No. 3 Payload: FSW-1 No. 03. Mass: 2,100 kg (4,600 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 208 km (129 mi). Apogee: 312 km (193 mi). Inclination: 57.00 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1990-089A. USAF Sat Cat: 20838. Decay Date: 1990-10-23. Fanhui Shi Weixing recoverable satellite; carried biological research experiments. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1991 January 22 - Launch Site: Haikou. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Zhinui. LV Configuration: Zhinui ZN-3.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1991 August 10 -
  • China accepts nuclear nonproliferation treaty Level: 1.
1991 December 28 - 12:00 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-3. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 3 CZ3-8 (26). FAILURE: Third stage failed to ignite. Partial Failure.
  • Zhongxing-4 Payload: STTW 5. Mass: 1,025 kg (2,259 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DFH-2. Agency: Chinasat. Perigee: 2,023 km (1,257 mi). Apogee: 34,041 km (21,152 mi). Inclination: 32.30 deg. Period: 632.60 min. COSPAR: 1991-088A. USAF Sat Cat: 21833. Third stage failure; unusable orbit. DFH-2 operational communications satellite. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1992 April -
  • Chinese manned space programme authorised Spacecraft: Shenzhou. The Chinese leadership decided that an independent manned space program could be afforded. The Chinese National Manned Space Program was given the designation Project 921. The 921-1 manned capsule entered full scale development in 1993 and the 921-2 space station in 1999. Only preliminary work was authorised on the 921-3 reusable spaceplane. Level: 1.
1992 April 29 - Launch Site: Taiyuan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-21. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. Level: 1.
1992 May 1 - Launch Site: Taiyuan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-21. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Agency: PRC. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. Level: 2.
1992 August 9 - 08:00 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2D. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2D CZ2D-1 (27).
  • FSW-2 No. 1 Payload: FSW-2 No. 01. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 171 km (106 mi). Apogee: 332 km (206 mi). Inclination: 63.10 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1992-051A. USAF Sat Cat: 22072. Duration: 15.00 days. Decay Date: 1992-09-01. Fanhui Shi Weixing recoverable imaging satellite; carried microgravity experiments; capsule returned August 25 after 15 days in orbit. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1992 October 6 - 06:20 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-13 (29).
  • FSW-1 No. 4 Payload: FSW-1 No. 04. Mass: 2,100 kg (4,600 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 213 km (132 mi). Apogee: 309 km (192 mi). Inclination: 63.00 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1992-064B. USAF Sat Cat: 22162. Duration: 6.00 days. Decay Date: 1992-10-31. Fanhui Shi Weixing recoverable imaging satellite; carried remote sensing, microgravity experiments; capsule recovered October 13 after 6 days in orbit. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1993 During the Year -
  • Development of Shenzhou manned spacecraft begins Spacecraft: Shenzhou, Project 921-2. The 921-1 manned capsule entered full scale development in 1993 and the 921-2 space station in 1999. Level: 1.
1993? - Launch Site: Taiyuan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: DF-21. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Agency: PRC. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. Level: 2.
1993 October 5 -
  • China breaks nuclear test moratorium Level: 1.
1993 October 8 - 08:00 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-14 (31).
  • FSW-1 No. 5 Payload: Jian Bing 93. Mass: 2,099 kg (4,627 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: CASC. Perigee: 181 km (112 mi). Apogee: 2,860 km (1,770 mi). Inclination: 56.60 deg. Period: 116.50 min. COSPAR: 1993-063A. USAF Sat Cat: 22859. Decay Date: 1993-10-28. The only FSW-1 mission conducted during 1993-1994 was launched into an orbit of 209 km by 300 km at an inclination of 57.0 deg. In addition to an Earth observation Payload, FSW-1 5 carried microgravity research equipment and a diamond-studded medallion commemorating the 100th anniversary of Chairman Mao Tse-Tung's birth. The spacecraft operated normally until 16 October when an attempt to recover the satellite failed. An attitude control system failure aligned the spacecraft 90 deg from its desired position, causing the re-entry capsule to be pushed into a higher elliptical orbit (179 km by 3031 km) instead of returning to Earth. Natural decay did not bring the capsule back until March 12, 1996. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1994 February 8 - 08:34 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-3A. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 3A CZ3A-1 (32).
  • SJ-4 Payload: Shi Jian 4. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: SJ. Agency: CASC. Perigee: 195 km (121 mi). Apogee: 26,837 km (16,675 mi). Inclination: 28.70 deg. Period: 465.40 min. COSPAR: 1994-010A. USAF Sat Cat: 22996. Particles and fields research. References: 2, 6, 276. Level: 1.
  • KF-1 Program: Chinastar. Payload: Kua Fu 1 / DFH-3 mockup. Mass: 2,200 kg (4,800 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: DFH-3. Agency: CASC. Perigee: 178 km (110 mi). Apogee: 36,046 km (22,397 mi). Inclination: 28.50 deg. Period: 635.69 min. COSPAR: 1994-010B. USAF Sat Cat: 23009. Decay Date: 2002-02-07. Mass model of DFH-3 satellite. References: 2, 279. Level: 1.
1994 April 2 -
  • Chinese satellite accident. Spacecraft: FY-2. The first Fen Yung 2 geostationary weather satellite was undergoing final checkout before being mated to its launch vehicle when a fire and explosion erupted, destroying the vehicle, killing one worker and injuring 20 others. Level: 1.
1994 July 3 - 08:00 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2D. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2D CZ2D-2 (33).
  • FSW-2 No. 2 Payload: FSW-2 No. 02. Mass: 2,600 kg (5,700 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: CASC. Perigee: 207 km (128 mi). Apogee: 350 km (210 mi). Inclination: 62.90 deg. Period: 90.08 min. COSPAR: 1994-037A. USAF Sat Cat: 23145. Duration: 15.00 days. Decay Date: 1994-09-13. The second Fanhui Shi Weixing FSW-2 was launched on 3 July 1994 into an orbit of 173 km by 343 km at an inclination of 63.0 deg. The spacecraft remained in orbit for 15 days, making four small manoeuvres before successfully returning to Earth. The payload included Earth observation systems, a biological experiment, and microgravity research instruments. The retrievable capsule was recovered in China on July 18 References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1994 July 21 - 10:55 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-3. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 3 CZ3-9 (34).
  • Apstar 1 Program: Apstar. Mass: 1,383 kg (3,048 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: HS 376. Agency: APT. Perigee: 35,785 km (22,235 mi). Apogee: 35,789 km (22,238 mi). Inclination: 0.00 deg. Period: 1,436.12 min. COSPAR: 1994-043A. USAF Sat Cat: 23185. Asia-Pacific communications. Operated in geosynchronous orbit at 138 deg E in 1994-1999. As of 5 September 2001 located at 138.04 deg E drifting at 0.004 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 11 located at 141.96E drifting at 0.002W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. Level: 1.
1994 November 29 - 17:02 GMT - Launch Site: Xichang. Launch Complex: LC2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-3A. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 3A CZ3A-2 (36).
  • Zhongxing-5 Program: