Long March 5 / 5B

Active
CASC
CASC
Long March 5 / 5B

Overview

China's most powerful operational rocket; the heavy-lift workhorse that launches Tiangong station modules (5B), Chang'e and Tianwen deep-space missions, and large GEO satellites.

Operational since its 2016 maiden flight from Wenchang; selected to launch the Chang'e-7 lunar south-pole mission in the second half of 2026.

Key Specs

Payload to LEO

25,000 kg

Payload to GTO

14,000 kg

Diameter

5.0 m (16 ft)

Propellant

LOX/kerosene + LOX/LH2

First Flight

November 2016