China conducts scientific probe in high-altitude atmosphere

BEIJING, May 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese scientists on Monday conducted an experiment in the high-altitude atmosphere and near-Earth space with the launch of a sounding rocket, it was confirmed on Tuesday.

The National Space Science Center (NSSC) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences said the rocket was launched at 9 p.m. Monday from Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China.

The experiment was designed to investigate energetic particles and magnetic fields in the ionized stratum and near-Earth space.

According to a preliminary analysis by the NSSC, the experiment has reached expected objectives by allowing scientists to obtain first-hand data regarding the space environment at different altitudes.