Kuaizhou-11 Launches AI and Refueling Satellites.

On March 16, 2026, ExPace launched its Kuaizhou-11 Y7 rocket from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center carrying a rideshare of eight satellites to sun-synchronous orbit.

The Kuaizhou-11 is a commercial launch vehicle with three solid-propellant stages and a liquid-fueled fourth stage for final orbital insertion. The rocket stands about 25 meters tall and uses grid fins on the first stage for steering during ascent through the atmosphere. This was the fifth flight of the Kuaizhou-11 and the 39th launch in the Kuaizhou series overall.

One of the payloads was Weitong-1-01, a nano remote sensing satellite equipped with an onboard artificial intelligence model that processes and analyzes Earth images in real time. Another satellite, Yuxing-3-06, tested a robotic arm for refueling other satellites in orbit along with a device to speed up its own deorbiting at the end of its mission.

The remaining satellites performed Earth observation tasks using technologies such as synthetic aperture radar, hyperspectral imaging, and high-precision optical remote sensing. These support applications including disaster monitoring, urban planning, environmental management, and all-weather imaging services.

The launch was fully successful. All stages operated as planned and every satellite reached its intended orbit. ExPace described the vehicle as a reliable, low-cost option for commercial customers.

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Видео Kuaizhou-11 Launches AI and Refueling Satellites. канала The Space Road