Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC)/Xichang Space Center, China
Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC)/Xichang Space Center, China
Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC): China’s Major Spaceport
The Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC), also known as the Xichang Space Center, is a key spaceport in China. It is located in Zeyuan Town, approximately 64 km (40 miles) northwest of Xichang, in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province.
Overview and Operations
Operational since 1984, XSLC supports the launch of civil, scientific, and military payloads each year. The site played a crucial role in Sino-European space cooperation, hosting the launch of the first Double Star scientific satellite in December 2003. Chinese officials have expressed interest in conducting additional international satellite launches from XSLC.
Notable Incidents
- 1996 Intelsat 708 Failure:A Long March 3B rocket carrying the Intelsat 708 satellite failed at launch, crashing into a nearby village and killing at least six people.
- Ongoing Debris Concerns:Uncontrolled rocket debris continues to fall in surrounding areas, with incidents reported as recently as December 2023 and June 2024.
Launch Complexes
XSLC originally planned three launch complexes, but only two were built:
- Launch Complex 1 (LC-1): Intended for the Shuguang human spaceflight program, but never constructed. Now used as a viewing area.
- Launch Complex 2 (LC-2 or LA-2): Supports launches of CGWIC’s Long March 2E, Long March 3A, Long March 3B, and Long March 3C rockets.
- Launch Complex 3 (LC-3 or LA-3): Also known as LA-1, used for CGWIC’s Long March 2C, Long March 3, Long March 3A, and Long March 3B launches.
-2005–2006: Demolished and rebuilt to support the Chinese Lunar Exploration Program.
-2013–2015: Demolished and rebuilt again for further upgrades.
Technical Center and Infrastructure
The Technical Center at XSLC is responsible for payload testing and launch vehicle integration.
- TheMission Command and Control Center is 7 km (4.3 miles) southwest of the launch pads, overseeing flight and safety operations.
- The facility is accessible via dedicated railway and highway connections from Xichang Qingshan Airport and Manshuiwan Railway Station, located 50 km (31 miles) from the launch site.
- Two active launch complexes currently support operations at XSLC.
XSLC remains a critical hub for China’s space program, supporting domestic and international satellite launches while continuing to modernize its infrastructure.