Just In: China’s Satellite Launch Raises Global Concerns, Ignites Space Security Worries
China is currently experiencing anxiety following the successful launch of the Einstein Probe satellite into space on January 9, 2024, as reported by state media CCTV. The satellite, propelled by the Long March-2C carrier rocket
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entered its designated orbit after launching from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in southwest Sichuan province.
After the launch, Taiwan’s authorities issued emergency alerts, urging residents to exercise caution due to safety concerns, particularly potential debris involvement.
The Einstein Probe’s launch site is located some 2,000 kilometers from Taipei, the capital of Taiwan.
CCTV’s footage captured the sight of the white rocket ascending into the sky, leaving behind a trail of white smoke as it separated in orbit.
Scientist Yuan Weimin, leading the project, lauded the satellite as the “most exquisite” he had ever witnessed.
China’s space endeavors, driven by President Xi Jinping’s declared “space dream,” have seen increased investments and efforts to narrow the gap with global leaders like the United States and Russia.
In October, China achieved another milestone with the dispatch of a fresh team to its Tiangong space station, part of its ambitious space program aiming to send astronauts to the Moon by 2030.
A yearly report from the US Department of Defense to Congress estimated that China accomplished 60 space launches, deploying 180 satellites into orbit in 2022.
This marked a substantial five-fold growth compared to figures recorded five years prior, positioning China as the second leading country, after the United States, in terms of operational satellites.
