The Chinese mainland launched its first commercial space-born experimental capsule, DEAR-5, on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the northwest of the Chinese mainland. 🚀
DEAR-5 lifted off aboard a Kuaizhou-11 carrier rocket developed by the China Space Sanjiang Group. The mission also carried a satellite, and both payloads were smoothly delivered to their designated orbits.
As an experimental platform, DEAR-5 will host microgravity research and tech demos in orbit. Think of it as a floating lab that lets scientists and startups test ideas—like advanced materials or biomedical experiments—in zero gravity.
This launch marks a big leap for the commercial space scene on the Chinese mainland, where private firms are spurring innovation and driving down costs. It’s like SpaceX vibes, but in Asia! With Indian players like Skyroot and Agnikul on the rise, our region is gearing up for its own space race. 🌏✨
Stay tuned as DEAR-5’s experiments kick off, and follow us for the latest on how affordable space access is changing the game. 🛰️💡
Reference(s):
China launches first commercial space-born experimental capsule
cgtn.com
