Chavez referred to the satellite 's launch as a key step toward greater scientific and technological independence for Venezuela , the Bolivarian News Agency reported . Telecommunications satellite will let rural areas access educational , medical services . Chinese rocket carrying satellite lifts off from Beijing Satellite Launch Center . Satellite reportedly designed to last 10 years . Venezuela spent $ 241 million in five years to develop the Simon Bolivar Satellite .
Telecommunications satellite will let rural areas access educational , medical services . Chinese rocket carrying satellite lifts off from Beijing Satellite Launch Center . Satellite reportedly designed to last 10 years . Venezuela spent $ 241 million in five years to develop the Simon Bolivar Satellite .