China launches GEO weather satellite

China has successfully launched its first geostationary-orbiting (GEO) meteorological satellite.

Called the Feng Yun 2, the satellite was launched atop a Long March (LM) 3 booster from Xichang on 10 June.

The launch, which followed two consecutive successful launches, of an LM2D in October 1996 and an LM3A in May, will be "-very helpful in rebuilding customers' confidence in the Long March", according to China Great Wall Industry.

China has suffered a series of LM failures in the past which have resulted in lost contracts, but it now hopes to resume commercial flights with the first of four LM3B launches later this year.

Source: Flight International