China: China launched a new experimental communications satellite today from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province, southwest China.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Shiyan-21 satellite was launched aboard a Long March-3B carrier rocket and successfully entered its predetermined orbit. The satellite will be used primarily for satellite communications, broadcasting, and data transmission, and related technical testing. This mission marks the 609th flight of the Long March carrier rocket series.

Similarly, SpaceX failed to launch its Starship test rocket on Friday at its Starbase launch site in South Texas. The launch was intended to conduct a pressure test of the redesigned gas and propellant systems on the upgraded stainless steel booster. A structural failure, caused by either excessive pressure or a limited internal explosion, resulted in a partial collapse of the rocket and the release of dense clouds of gas.