The company said the satellites are expected to carry out high-definition mapping of the globe in a rapid, efficient manner, with radars so sensitive it is capable of detecting geological changes at millimeter level. The data can support the monitoring and prevention of geological hazards such as subsiding, collapses and landslides.

Long March 2D, designed and built by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, is propelled by liquid fuel and has a liftoff thrust of 300 metric tons. It is capable of sending spacecraft with a combined weight of 1.3 tons to a sun-synchronous orbit with an altitude of 700 kilometers.

The launch marks the 469th mission of the Long March family and China's 13th rocket liftoff in 2023.