The Wenchang Satellite Launch Center (WSLC), or Hainan Space Launch Center, is a Chinese spaceport under conversion for operations in 2014. It is a former sub-orbital test center, located on the Hainan island, near the city of Wenchang.
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 China mainland whose rail tracks are too narrow to transport the new five meter core boosters, Wenchang will use its sea port for deliveries.
Initial launches of the CZ-5 booster from Wenchang are expected in 2014, one year after the intended commissioning of the Wenchang Center.
