Long March 12 | SatNet LEO Group 24 — Post-launch Report

Executive takeaway

The Long March 12 successfully launched nine LEO communication satellites for the SatNet constellation on August 16, 2026, enhancing China's satellite internet capabilities.

Confirmed facts

The Long March 12 launched on August 16, 2026, at 04:10 UTC from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Hainan Province, China. The mission deployed nine Low Earth Orbit (LEO) communication satellites for the SatNet constellation. The Long March 12 is capable of delivering payloads of at least 12 tons to LEO.

Analyst context

The successful deployment of the SatNet satellites is a clear indication of China's ongoing investment in satellite internet capabilities, which may enhance its geopolitical influence in global communications. The Long March 12's reliability further solidifies its role in future missions.

Compute signal

No specific onboard processing capabilities have been disclosed for the satellites, indicating a lack of significant compute or data-infrastructure features. Therefore, the compute angle for this mission is minimal.

Outcome

The mission was successful, achieving its objective of deploying nine satellites. There were no discrepancies from the pre-launch plan, reinforcing the reliability of the Long March 12 vehicle.

Sources

• CASC SatNet LEO Group 24 Long March 12 Rocket Launch
• Information notice on the launch of the 'SatNet LEO Group 24' spacecraft — НЦУВКЗ
• Long March 12 launch vehicle was successfully launched with the low-earth orbit satellite internet-Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology
• Long March-12 Carrier Rocket Successfully Launches 22nd Group of Low-orbit Internet Satellites-Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology
• Long March-12 launches SatNet LEO Group 16