CAS Space launches Lijian-1 rocket to deploy AI-focused satellites

On July 24, 2026, the Chinese commercial company CAS Space successfully launched the Lijian-1 Y15 rocket from the Dongfeng Commercial Aerospace Innovation Pilot Zone in northwest China. The mission, which marks the fifteenth flight of the Lijian-1, successfully placed five satellites into their intended orbits.

Unlike standard communication satellites, these payloads are designed to experiment with advanced space technologies, including space computing, embedded artificial intelligence, and autonomous orbital object management. The Lijian-1 is a solid-fuel commercial orbital vehicle approximately 30 meters in height, capable of carrying larger loads than typical micro-launchers.

The mission reflects China's efforts to normalize the frequent commercial launch of small and medium-sized satellites while testing technologies that could eventually move data processing and artificial intelligence capabilities into space.