China has increased its orbital rocket launches significantly, going from fewer than 20 per year a decade ago to 64 in 2022 and a record 93 in 2023. This growth positions China as the second-most productive space power globally, alongside state-owned enterprises and a growing number of private launch companies. However, concerns have been raised regarding China's adherence to established norms for disposing of the upper stages of rockets, which are responsible for placing satellites and spacecraft into orbit.
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China's Rocket Launches Reach Record Highs Amid Concerns Over Upper Stage Disposal
China's rocket launches have surged, reaching a record 93 in 2023, making it the second-most productive space power. Despite this growth, analysts express concerns about the country's practices regarding the disposal of spent rocket stages.
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Analyst on China's spent rocket stages: "Things only continue to get worse"
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China's Rocket Launches Reach Record Highs Amid Concerns Over Upper Stage Disposal