The Smart Dragon 3 carrier rocket took off from a launch ship off the coast of Haiyang district in Yantai, East China's Shandong province, on the evening of March 22. This marked its 10th flight and the first offshore launch during the Year of the Horse. The mission successfully deployed 10 satellites for the CentiSpace low-orbit satellite system into their targeted orbits.

The Smart Dragon 3 carrier rocket launched offshore Shandong, placing 10 satellites into their intended orbit. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_8455931f4eab]

For this mission, engineers improved the rocket's antenna layout and fairing structure to enhance telemetry coverage and reliability. They also introduced wired communication technology between the front and rear sections to boost anti-interference capabilities and lower costs, setting the stage for more frequent offshore launches.

Over 10,000 spectators across China gathered at Haiyang's coastal viewing areas to witness the event. The district complemented the experience with a space-themed market, cultural performances, and a robot show.

With 24 sea launches completed so far, Haiyang Oriental Aerospace Port has sent 154 satellites into space. By 2026, Haiyang aims to support over 10 offshore launch and test missions, further strengthening its commercial aerospace industry cluster.