BEIJING: China and France have jointly launched a satellite, the most advanced yet for studying farthest explosion of stars, into orbit on Saturday, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported.
The satellite, designed to investigate phenomena such as gamma-ray bursts, was lifted into orbit using a Chinese carrier rocket launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province, CCTV reported.
The Space Variable Objects Monitor, launched in partnership between the two nations, China and France, is expected to significantly contribute to astronomical discoveries, the CCTV quoted the China National Space Administration as saying.
This collaboration marks the first astronomy satellite jointly developed by China and France. The launch follows their previous joint effort, the China-France Oceanography Satellite launched in 2018, as reported by China Daily in April.
China’s rapid advancements in space exploration, including lunar missions, are surpassing those of the United States. This progress has attracted partnerships from European and Asian countries, solidifying China’s position as a key player in space exploration.
In recent developments, China’s Chang’e-6 lunar probe transported payloads to the far side of the moon from the European Space Agency, as well as from research institutes in Pakistan, France, and Italy.
China is also collaborating with countries such as Brazil, Egypt, and Thailand in the development and launch of satellites, further expanding its global presence in space exploration initiatives.
