China takes Africa into space

After fixing itself in orbit at a longitude of 42 degrees east, the satellite should be activated by Nigeria and have a lifespan of 15 years. It will be tracked jointly by ground stations in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, and the Chinese city of Kashgar.

China won the deal with Nigeria in 2004 after outbidding 21 international rivals to secure the US$311 million deal.

The satellite and carrier rocket, that were built in China and purchased by Nigeria represent the 98th flight of China's Long March rockets and were developed by the China Academy of Space Technology and China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology.

The successful project highlights China's wish to work with developing countries in boldly and peacefully exploring space. China has already signed several cooperative contracts offering commercial launching services for foreign satellites, such as that signed with Venezuela in November 2005.

Editor:Du Xiaodan