China launches first mobile telecom satellite

China has successfully launched the first satellite for its mobile telecommunications system. The Tiantong-01 satellite was launched from southwest China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center early Saturday. It is the first satellite of China’s home-made satellite mobile telecom system, and also a key part of the country’s space information infrastructure. The satellite will establish a mobile network with ground facilities to provide services to areas including China, the Middle East, and Africa.