Displaying items by tag: Wenchang (WSLC)

Wenchang Satellite Launch Center (WSLC), located near Wenchang on the north-east coast of Hainan Island, is a former sub-orbital test center currently under upgrade (Nov. 2012).

It is the fourth and southernmost space vehicle launch facility (spaceport) of China. It has been specially selected for its low latitude, which is only 19 degrees north of the equator, which will allow for a substantial increase in payload, necessary for the future manned program, space station and deep space exploration program. Furthermore, it will be capable of launching the new heavy lift Long March 5 booster currently under development.

Unlike the Space Centers on the mainland whose rail tracks are too narrow to transport the new five meter core boosters, Wenchang can use its sea port for deliveries.