China's 2026 space blitz begins with four launches in weeks

China's space programme has kicked off 2026 with a busy schedule, already completing four launches in the first weeks of the year. The latest missions included a Long March 2C rocket carrying an Algerian satellite and a Ceres-1 rocket deploying four new communication satellites at sea. With over 100 launches planned for the year, the country is preparing for major missions, including lunar exploration and crewed flights.

The year began with two successful launches in quick succession. On 10 January, a Long March 2C rocket lifted off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, delivering the Algerian Remote Sensing Satellite-3A (AlSat-3A) into orbit. The satellite, developed under a 2023 contract between the China Great Wall Industry Corporation and the Algerian Space Agency, offers very high-resolution imaging for observation and geospatial intelligence.

A few days later, the Ceres-1 rocket made its return after a failure in November 2025. Operated by private firm Guodian Gaoke, the rocket launched at night from a sea platform, carrying four satellites for the Tianqi constellation. This commercial network supports communication services, particularly in remote areas.

China's private space sector continues to expand, with multiple companies managing constellations for Earth observation, disaster monitoring, and telecommunications. These systems now play a key role in land surveying, environmental tracking, and emergency response.

Looking ahead, three more launches are scheduled within days: the debut of the Ceres-2 rocket, a Long March 3B mission, and the first flight of the Long March 12. Later in the year, China plans high-profile missions, including the maiden flight of the Long March 10A, crewed flights on the Mengzhou spacecraft, Shenzhou-23 and 24 missions, and the Chang'e-7 lunar lander.

The early 2026 launches mark a strong start to China's most ambitious space schedule yet. With private companies expanding satellite networks and state-led missions targeting the Moon and crewed flights, the year will see significant growth in both commercial and scientific space activities. Over 100 launches are expected, reinforcing the country's position in global space exploration.