Built in 1970, Xichang Satellite Launch Center became operational in 1984 when it launched China's first communications satellite. As an affiliate with the PLA General Armament Department, the launch center is responsible for test launching and launching commas it launched China's first communications satellite this year. As an affiliate with the PLA General Armament unications, broadcast and weather satellites. By 2013 the number of domestic and international launches conducted here had reached 84. [Photo by Zheng Liang/China.org.cn]