The Chinese Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology is developing a new upper stage for the Long March 2C (LM2C) booster. The CTS three-axis stabilised stage is powered by an FG-47 solid propellant motor. It is a derivative of the smart dispenser used by the LM2C to carry Iridium satellites into low Earth orbit.
The LM2C/CTS will be able to place 1,400kg (3,100lb) into a 900km (560miles) sun-synchronous orbit, and will likely carry the two European Space Agency-Chinese Double Star science satellites into orbit in December 2002 and April 2003. A larger ETS upper stage is also being considered for the LM2E booster.
Meanwhile, China is developing a new fleet of three all-solid propellant boosters for the commercial satellite launch market. The China Space Solid Fuel Rocket Carrier company is preparing the first vehicle, Kaituozhe 1, for a 2002 launch.
Source: Flight International
