(Yicai Global) Sept. 16 -- China has successfully completed its first commercial ocean-based space launch, sending nine satellites into orbit.

A Long March 11 rocket, developed by China Aerospace Science and Technology, launched Jilin-1 Gaofen-03 Earth observation satellites from an ocean platform in the Yellow Sea.

The nine spacecraft, developed by Chang Guang Satellite Technology, should be used for agricultural and environmental monitoring.

The mission is China's second seaborne launch ever, said Jin Xin, deputy commander-in-chief of the carrier rocket.

The latest mission should improve the safety and reliability of maritime launch technologies, Jin added.

Editor: Emmi Laine