China successfully launched its latest data relay satellite, Tianlian II-05, from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province. The satellite was carried aboard a Long March-3B carrier rocket and was successfully placed into its planned orbit.
This mission marked 572nd flight of the Long March rocket series, highlighting China’s continued progress in its space infrastructure and launch operations.
Key Highlights
- Satellite: Tianlian II-05 (China’s second-generation data relay satellite).
- Launch Vehicle: Long March-3B carrier rocket.
- Launch Site: Xichang Satellite Launch Center, Sichuan, China.
- Orbit Achieved: Geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO); will maneuver to geostationary orbit (GEO) at ~35,786 km above the equator.
About Tianlian II-05 Satellite:
- Tianlian II-05 belongs to China’s second-generation geosynchronous orbit data relay satellite system.
- Designed to enhance space-based communication, telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) capabilities.
- Provides data relay and TT&C services for:
- Manned spacecraft (e.g., crewed spacecraft, Tiangong Space Station).
- Medium and low-Earth orbit resource satellites.
- Support for spacecraft launches by maintaining TT&C coverage during missions.
- Developed by: China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), under China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).
Background on Tianlian Satellite System:
- Tianlian satellites play a role similar to the U.S. Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS).
- Provide near-constant communication coverage for orbiting spacecraft like Tiangong Space Station.
- The system involves satellites stationed at different points around geostationary orbit (GEO) for global coverage.
Timeline:
- First satellite Tianlian-1 (01) launched in 2008.
- Subsequent satellites Tianlian-1 (02) and (03) now retired (in graveyard orbits).
- Currently active satellites include:
- Tianlian-1 (04) and (05) (first-generation).
- Tianlian-2 (01 to 05) (second-generation, including the newly launched II-05).
Technical Features
Satellite Platform:
- Tianlian-1 series: Based on DFH-3 platform.
- Tianlian-2 series: Based on DFH-4 communications platform.
Upgrades in Tianlian-2:
- Higher data transmission rates.
- Improved bandwidth.
- Extended operational lifespan of up to 15 years.
Significance
- The launch of Tianlian II-05 strengthens China’s capacity to manage critical national space missions including:
- Manned spaceflight operations.
- Space station support.
- Resource satellite monitoring.
- Ensures robust telemetry, tracking, and command coverage during launches and orbital operations.
- Reinforces China’s ambition for independent and continuous space communication infrastructure, vital for its expanding space program.