(VOVworld) - China on early Saturday successfully launched the first satellite for mobile telecommunication. The Tiantong-01 satellite was launched at southwestern China's Xichang Satellite Launch Center, with the Long March-3B carrier rocket. 

Photo: Xinhuanet

It is the first satellite of China's home-made satellite mobile telecom system, and a key part of the country's space information infrastructure. Tiantong-01 was designed by China Academy of Space Technology and its ground service will be operated by China Telecom. It will establish a mobile network with ground facilities, providing services for China, the Middle East, Africa and other areas. It was the 232nd flight of the Long March series carrier rockets, and the 36th launch of the Long March-3B.