The Gaofen 5-01A satellite, launched aboard a Long March 2D carrier rocket from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi province in December 2022, has now been officially integrated into China's growing constellation of Earth-observation satellites. The satellite orbits at an altitude of 705 kilometers in a sun-synchronous orbit, a choice that maximizes its observational effectiveness.
At the core of Gaofen 5-01A's mission are its several world-class instruments, including a wide thermal infrared imager and an advanced hyper-spectral imager. These apparatuses enhance the satellite's ability to monitor various environmental parameters. As stated by the CNSA, these instruments are pivotal for "tracking greenhouse gases such as nitrogen dioxide and ozone, monitoring water quality in lakes and rivers and looking for minerals and other resources." This array of capabilities underscores the satellite's multifunctional role in addressing both ecological and geological tasks.
The deployment of Gaofen 5-01A is particularly significant for China's efforts in ecological conservation and climate change response. Data garnered from this satellite will "extensively support China's efforts to protect its ecosystems and natural resources," according to the mission planners. The spacecraft's trial operations included rigorous testing of its equipment and overall capability, ensuring its readiness for the tasks ahead.
As of Tuesday, Gaofen 5-01A had transmitted an impressive 245 terabytes of data back to Earth, which included nearly 86,000 remote-sensing images. These figures not only demonstrate the satellite's technical prowess but also its potential impact on environmental monitoring and management.
The Gaofen satellite program, initiated in May 2010 and recognized as one of China's 16 nationally important projects in science and technology, has been a cornerstone in reducing the country's reliance on foreign remote-sensing products. With more than 20 satellites now in active service under this program, China has substantially bolstered its capabilities in Earth observation. The data and images from these satellites have found widespread application across 28 industries in China, benefiting thousands of research bodies and enterprises.
The Gaofen 5-01A is a product of the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, a testament to China's growing expertise and self-reliance in space technology. The successful commissioning of this satellite is not just a national achievement but also contributes significantly to global environmental monitoring efforts.
Based on a Xinhua News Agency article
Related Links
China National Space Agency
Earth Observation News - Suppiliers, Technology and Application
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