China successfully launched a new satellite for Algeria late Friday, marking a significant step in space cooperation between the two countries. The mission, which lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, deployed the Algerian Remote Sensing Satellite-3B, also known as AlSat-3B. The launch comes after the earlier Jan. 14 launch of AlSat-3A, forming a pair of satellites designed to provide very high-resolution images for observation and geospatial intelligence.
China Launches AlSat-3B to Boost Algeria’s Satellite Imaging
The rocket used for this mission was a Long March 2C, a reliable and widely used vehicle in China’s space program. It lifted off at 11:01 p.m. Eastern on Jan. 30 (0401 UTC, Jan. 31). During the climb, insulation tiles fell away from the hypergolic-fueled rocket as it soared into the clear sky above the desert launch site.
The satellite aboard, AlSat-3B, is the twin of AlSat-3A. Both were developed by the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), a key subsidiary of the state-owned China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).
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These satellites are designed to help Algeria monitor land, natural resources, and other geographic information with very high-resolution images. The project highlights growing international cooperation, as countries increasingly use advanced space technology to strengthen observation capabilities from orbit.
Series of Launches Marks China’s Active Space Program
This launch follows several recent missions in China’s busy space schedule. On Jan. 19, the country launched the 19th batch of satellites for its Guowang broadband megaconstellation from the Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site. These satellites were built by commercial manufacturer GalaxySpace and include advanced technology such as phased array antennas, millimeter-wave antennas, integrated electronics, and energy systems.
The Long March 2C launch carrying AlSat-3B was China’s seventh orbital launch attempt in 2026, while the Long March 12 mission from Hainan marked the eighth. The country is on track to potentially exceed 100 launches this year, having conducted 92 missions in 2025 with only two failures. This aggressive schedule highlights China’s ambitions to maintain a leading position in space activities, covering everything from commercial broadband to international satellite partnerships.
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Despite the success of the AlSat-3B mission, not all launches are moving forward as planned. Several upcoming missions using the Long March 7A and Long March 8A rockets from Hainan have been delayed. Airspace closure notices for these launches were recently rescinded, suggesting postponements. The delays follow a failed launch of a Long March 3B, which experienced problems with its third stage. This stage is similar in design to those used in other upcoming missions, which may be contributing to the caution.
Human Spaceflight Preparations Affect Launch Schedule
Another reason for the launch delays appears to be preparations for a major human spaceflight test at China’s Wenchang spaceport. Images shared on Chinese social media show a test vehicle on the launch pad, which could be used either for a low-altitude flight test or an abort test of the Mengzhou crew spacecraft. This test is expected to take place in early-to-mid February, although official confirmation has not been provided.
The tests are part of the development of the Long March 10 series, which is designed for human spaceflight to low Earth orbit and potentially lunar missions. The Long March 10A, a single-stick variant of the full tri-core rocket, is expected to carry the Mengzhou spacecraft on its first full flight later in the year. Meanwhile, AlSat-3B continues its mission in orbit, providing high-resolution imaging for Algeria and supporting ongoing international space cooperation.
Additionally, a reusable cargo variant, Long March 10B, is also scheduled for testing in the first half of 2026. The work at Wenchang is crucial for ensuring the safety and success of these missions, as it involves testing critical systems that protect astronauts during launch and in emergency situations.
The success of AlSat-3B underscores China’s ability to manage multiple space projects simultaneously, including commercial, international, and human spaceflight programs. With a busy launch calendar and increasing focus on crewed missions, AlSat-3B highlights China’s growing capabilities in space technology and exploration.
