China’s Galactic Energy Achieves Milestone with Sea-Based Ceres-1 Rocket Launch

Galactic Energy, a leading Chinese private space company, marked another significant achievement on May 19, 2025, with the successful launch of its Ceres-1 solid-propellant rocket from a sea-based platform. This mission deployed four Tianqi satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO), further expanding China's capabilities in the rapidly growing commercial space sector.

The launch, coordinated by the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center, took place at 3:38 a.m. EDT (0738 GMT; 3:38 p.m. local Beijing time) off the coast of Shandong Province.

This was the fifth sea-based launch for the Ceres-1, highlighting the company's expertise in this increasingly popular launch method. It was reported that the four Tianqi satellites join an existing network of IoT spacecraft operated by Guodian Gaoke.

These satellites will contribute to the Tianqi network, a constellation of Internet of Things (IoT) data-connectivity spacecraft operated by Beijing-based Guodian Gaoke. With these additions, Guodian Gaoke has completed its initial plans for the constellation, having launched a total of 41 Tianqi satellites to LEO. This network is designed to provide global data transmission for internet-connected smart devices, catering to both government and private users. China completed the global network for a satellite constellation for the IoT with a commerical launch from the sea.

The applications of the Tianqi constellation are far-reaching, from forestry and agriculture to emergency response and smart cities. It is also moving to direct-to-satellite use cases for automobiles, walkie-talkies and smartwatches.

The 66-foot-tall Ceres-1 rocket, a four-stage vehicle, utilizes solid rocket engines on its lower three stages and a hydrazine liquid engine on the fourth. This launch marked the Ceres-1's 20th flight overall, with a record of successful launches adding weight to the reliability of launches carried out by Galactic Energy.

Galactic Energy's success extends beyond the Ceres-1. The company is also developing a liquid-propellant launch vehicle called Pallas-1, expected to debut later this year. The Pallas-1's eventual design includes a recoverable and reusable first stage, signaling Galactic Energy's commitment to innovation and sustainability in space travel.

The commercial space sector in China continues to gain momentum, with companies like Galactic Energy leading the charge. This successful launch not only expands China’s IoT capabilities but also demonstrates the growing maturity and competitiveness of its private space industry.

What are your thoughts on the growing role of private companies in space exploration? Share your opinions and predictions in the comments below!

• Ceres-1
• Galactic Energy
• Tianqi