HELSINKI — China conducted a pair of launches sending an experimental spacecraft to geosynchronous orbit and three further satellites into polar orbits.

The first launch of the day saw a Long March 3C rocket, exceptionally using a YZ-1 upper stage, lift off at 10:34 p.m. Eastern Sept. 4 (0234 UTC Sept. 5) from Xichang Satellite Launch Center, southwest China.

The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation revealed the payload to be the Shiyan-29 satellite in a statement announcing success of the launch. The launch was described as a complete success, sending the Shiyan-29 satellite into its designated orbit. The Long March 3 series is typically used for launches to geosynchronous transfer orbit or occasionally beyond.

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