China launches new communication satellite

China successfully launched a new communication satellite, Zhongxing-1A, from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwestern Sichuan Province early Monday. The satellite, lifted by a Long March-3B rocket carrier, blasted off from the center and successfully entered the preset orbit, China''s News Agency (Xinhua) reported. Zhongxing-1A was designed and manufactured by the China Academy of Space Technology under the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. The satellite will provide high-quality voice communication, broadcast and data transmission services for users across China. The launch was the 146th mission for the Long March carrier rocket series.