Xichang Satellite Launch Center

　　Highlights       The old Launch Pad 3, known as the “Meritorious Tower,” has been retired after fulfilling its historic mission. On April 8, 1984, it successfully launched China’s first geostationary orbit satellite, marking the beginning of China’s satellite communication era; on February 1, 1986, it launched China’s first practical broadcast communication satellite, ending the country’s reliance on foreign satellites for TV and radio broadcasts; and on April 7, 1990, it launched China’s first commercial satellite for a foreign client, opening the door to the international space market for the first time. These achievements represent three firsts in China’s aerospace history. 　    Introduction       Built in the early 1970s, the Xichang Satellite Launch Center is Asia’s largest and most advanced satellite launch base with comprehensive capabilities for launching various spacecraft. It is located amidst beautiful mountains and rivers, about 60 kilometers northwest of Xichang City. The launch site includes two launch pads (namely Launch Pad 2, hailed as the “No. 1 Tower in Asia,” and the newly built Launch Pad 3, constructed to support China’s lunar exploration program), along with supporting facilities such as the technical testing center and command control center. These facilities are capable of handling the launch services of various types of domestic and international satellites. Since the successful launch of its first experimental communications satellite in 1984, over ten satellites have been launched here using the “Long March 3,” “Long March 2E,” and “Long March 3A” rockets over the past decade. Opened to the public in 1988, the center has welcomed hundreds of thousands of domestic and international visitors to this remarkable valley to witness the thrilling process of rocket launches.

　　      Note: A valid ID is required for entry into the satellite base, and cameras are strictly prohibited. 　    Transportation     Located within Mianning County, it is approximately 65 kilometers from Xichang City, 18 kilometers from National Highway 108, the Ya’an-Panzhihua Expressway, and Manshuiwan Railway Station, and 50 kilometers from Qingshan Airport. Visitors can hire a taxi or minivan from Xichang, with a one-hour drive and a fare of 200–300 yuan. 　    Ticket/Opening Hours    Ticket: 56 yuan. The main attractions include Launch Pads 2 and 3, an actual Long March 3 rocket, and the satellite launch and control center (the launch process is generally explained through video presentations).

　　 Liangshan, Sichuan