China has successfully launched a new model of carrier rocket Long March-11 for sending four micro satellites into space from the country’s northwestern province. The rocket blasted off from from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the northwestern province of Gansu.

The solid propellant rocket was developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology with the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation. The rocket will mainly be used for launching micro-satellites. The successful launch of the rocket marked a major breakthrough for the nation in key technology for solid propellant rockets. The trip was the 211th mission for the Long March rocket family.

Facts About China

• China is the 3rd largest country by area
• China is officially known as the People’s Republic of China.
• The capital city is Beijing, while the most populated city is Shanghai. Other major cities include Chongqing, Shenzhen and Guangzhou.
• China is the second largest economy in the world, after the United States of America.
• China hosted the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing.