New-generation carrier rockets:

The Long March-7, China’s next-generation carrier rocket, lifted off on its maiden flight on June 25. The rocket, which took eight years to develop, can carry up to 13.5 tons to a low Earth orbit. The Long March-7 will be used to launch cargo vehicles for China’s planned space station and is expected to become the main carrier for future space launches. China also expects to launch the Long March-5, its largest carrier rocket to date, which is designed to carry 25 tons into a low Earth orbit, later this year.