The Eastern Houston: Xichang Satellite Launch Center and the Gateway to the Moon

The "Eastern Houston" in the Deep Mountains

1.Located in Zeyuan: Town, Mianning County, within the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province, the Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC) is a world-renowned landmark of China’s aerospace achievements. Situated approximately 60 to 65 kilometers from Xichang City in a secluded canyon of the Anning River valley, the base sits at an average altitude of 1,500 to 1,800 meters. Established in 1970 and operational since 1982, it is one of China's most critical spaceports, famous globally as the "Eastern Houston." The center is not only a hub for high-tech missions—launching broadcasting satellites, the Beidou Navigation System, and the historic Chang'e Lunar Exploration probes—but also a National 4A Tourist Attraction and a premier base for patriotic and scientific education. It holds the distinction of being the first Chinese launch center to open its doors to the public (in 1984), allowing visitors to unveil the mystery of the cosmos amidst the rugged beauty of the Daliangshan mountains,,.

A Legacy of "Two Bombs, One Satellite"

The history of the center is a testament to resilience and strategic vision. Originally built as part of the "Third Front Construction" to secure China's industrial capabilities in the inland, the site was chosen for its favorable latitude, high altitude, and secure canyon geography. Since its first successful launch of the "Dongfanghong-2" experimental communications satellite in 1984, XSLC has been the stage for numerous milestones, including China's first entry into the international commercial launch market in 1990 with the "AsiaSat-1." Walking through the facility, visitors can feel the spirit of the "Two Bombs, One Satellite" pioneers who overcame extreme hardships to build this world-class facility. The center has evolved from a secret military project into a symbol of national pride, witnessing the leap from basic rocketry to complex deep-space exploration missions like the Chang'e lunar landings,.

Giants of Steel: The Launch Towers

The most visually arresting features of the center are its massive launch towers. The No. 2 Launch Tower, often hailed as the "Asian No. 1 Tower," is a colossal steel structure that has shouldered the majority of the Long March 3 series rocket launches. Standing beneath this towering giant, one can feel the immense power and engineering precision required to send tons of metal into orbit. Nearby, the modernized No. 3 Launch Tower was specifically designed to support the ambitious lunar exploration programs. The site also features a Command and Control Hall, the "nerve center" of the operation, where visitors can see the rows of consoles and giant screens that monitor every heartbeat of a mission. Seeing these facilities up close offers a stark, awe-inspiring contrast between the raw steel of the towers and the serene blue skies of the plateau,.

A Journey Through Space History

2.To deepen the understanding of: China's aerospace journey, the center houses the History Exhibition Hall and the Space Science Museum. These venues display a rich collection of artifacts, including rocket debris, satellite models, historical documents, and the personal items of legendary scientists. A highlight for many is the open-air display of a real Long March 3 rocket, allowing tourists to physically touch the vessel that has traveled to the stars. The exhibitions vividly recount the "Three Falls and Three Rises" of the development process and the triumphs of the Beidou and Chang'e missions. Interactive simulations in the museum let children and enthusiasts experience the thrill of a countdown and ignition, making it a perfect destination for family education and science tourism,.

A Fusion of Science and Nature

Beyond the steel and technology, the Xichang Satellite Launch Center is set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty and ethnic culture. The launch site is embraced by mountains on three sides, with the Anning River flowing nearby, creating a secure natural fortress that is also ecologically scenic. The region is home to the Yi people, and the juxtaposition of ancient local traditions—such as the Torch Festival, where fire is used to pray for harvest—and the modern "fire" of rocket engines creates a unique cultural dialogue. The climate here is mild, known as a "Little Spring City," making it accessible year-round, though the best "launch window" weather typically occurs between October and May. Whether you are a space enthusiast dreaming of the stars or a traveler seeking to understand modern China's rise, a visit to this "Gateway to the Moon" offers a profound and inspiring experience,,.