Space: January 29, 2003

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China is adapting two of its ICBMs for satellite launching. The new Pioneer-1 satellite launch booster is based on the DF-21 ballistic missile. It can put 200 pounds into low Earth orbit. The new Pioneer-2 satellite launch booster is based on the DF-31 ballistic missile. It can put 300 pounds into low Earth orbit. --Stephen V Cole