Amid the COVID-19 epidemic, a Long March 2D rocket took off carrying the XJS (C – F) mission on Wednesday, February 19 at 9:07 PM (UTC).

This launch took place at the Xichang Space Center in southwestern China and is interesting for a couple of reasons. For one, this launch center doesn’t usually perform launches of this particular rocket type and primarily handles launches of the Long March 3. Normally the Long March 2s fly from either Jiquan, or from the Taiyuan space centers, both in northern China. This is the first space launch for China since the recent coronavirus outbreak became worldwide news. Most of China’s various space facilities have taken a number of precautionary measures to limit the spread of the disease, such as employing body temperature monitors and requiring everyone to wear face masks.

As is often the case, there’s not a lot of other information about this launch. What we do know is that four technology demonstration satellites were carried into low Earth orbit. While not much is known about the specific operations of these spacecraft, CASC reports that they will mainly focus on testing new Earth observation technologies, as well as inter-satellite communications between the members of the constellation.

This isn’t the greatest quality launch footage, but it shows the command room and the workers inside.  They are all wearing masks to conform with disease prevention standards. Annie felt that it was important to share the human side of this rocket launch.

Because China launches from inland rather than a coastline, debris fell to land.  Guizhou Radio and Television reported no major casualties or property damage and that the recovery process was successful.