A satellite developed by China and France, the most powerful yet for studying the farthest explosion of stars, has been launched into orbit, Chinese state media says.
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The satellite to study phenomena including gamma-ray bursts was lifted into orbit by a Chinese carrier rocket launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in the southwest province of Sichuan, CCTV said on Saturday.
The launch of the Space Variable Objects Monitor would play an important role in astronomical discoveries, the broadcaster said, citing the China National Space Administration.
It is the first astronomy satellite developed by China and France, although they developed the China-France Oceanography Satellite, launched in 2018, China Daily reported in April.
China's advances in space and lunar exploration are rapidly outpacing those of the United States, attracting partners from European and Asian countries.
China's Chang'e-6 lunar probe this month carried to the far side of the moon payloads from the European Space Agency, as well as from Pakistani, French and Italian research institutes.
China is working with countries including Brazil, Egypt and Thailand to develop and launch satellites.
Australian Associated Press
