(Yicai Global) Oct. 9 -- China launched a remote-sensing VRSS-2 satellite for Venezuela from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center today. China's carrier rocket Long March-2D assisted in launching the satellite into orbit, state-owned news agency Xinhua reported.

VRSS-2, also known as Sucre, is Venezuela's third satellite launched in collaboration with China after telecommunications Venesat-1 and VRSS-1. The South American country will mainly use VRSS-2 to inspect land resources, protect the environment, monitor disasters, estimate crop yields and plan cities. It will play a positive role in helping the nation develop its economy, improve citizens' livelihoods and promote social progress.

China Great Wall Industry Corp., owned by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp., is the general contractor for the satellite and signed a project agreement with Venezuela's Ministry of People's Power for Higher Education, Science and Technology in October 2014. Under the contract, the satellite was being developed in collaboration with Aerospace Dongfanghong Satellite Co., an affiliate of the China Academy of Space Technology, and Venezuela's space agency. Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology developed the carrier rocket.

Today's launch marks the 252nd flight of the Long March rocket series.