CHINA Rocket Co. Ltd. released its commercial carrier rockets research and development plan in Beijing on Saturday.

As introduced by President of China Rocket Co. Ltd. Tang Yagang, the new series, classified into solid-propellant and liquid-propellant carrier rockets, will satisfy the improving commercial payload in-orbit demands.

The solid-propellant carrier rockets Smart Dragon-2 (SD-2) and SD-3 are expected to conduct flight tests in 2020 and 2021, respectively.

The SD-2, with a total length of 21 meters, a diameter of two meters and a total weight of about 60 tons, will be capable of sending 500 kg of payloads to the solar synchronous orbit at an altitude of 500 km.

The SD-3, with a total length of 31 meters, a diameter of 2.6 meters and a total weight of about 116 tons, will be capable of sending 1.5 tons of payloads to the solar synchronous orbit at an altitude of 500 km.

SD-1 made its maiden flight in August this year.

The SD series is designed to provide reliable, convenient and economic launching services for commercial satellite users in the constellation network and payload tests. (Xinhua)