On November 13, 2024, China successfully launched its first Haiyang-4 oceanography satellite, marking the country's 55th orbital launch for the year. The launch took place at 5:42 p.m. Eastern Time from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 4B rocket.
Launch Details
The Haiyang-4 (01) satellite is part of an ambitious program by the China National Space Administration (CNSA) to enhance its oceanographic research capabilities. The rocket utilized during the launch experienced a successful liftoff, despite shedding insulation tiles from its payload fairing, which is a common occurrence during ascent.
Significant Innovations
The Haiyang-4 satellite is equipped with advanced instrumentation, including a comprehensive aperture radiometer, which is designed to enhance the precision of ocean-salinity detection globally. This technological advancement comes at a crucial time as nations aim to bolster marine data collection, which is integral to understanding ocean dynamics and environmental changes.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Launch Vehicle | Long March 4B |
| Orbit Type | Near polar orbit |
| Payload | Haiyang-4 (01) satellite |
| Orbit Altitude | 633 x 644 kilometers |
A Strategic Step for China's Ocean Monitoring
The launch of the Haiyang-4 (01) is aligned with China’s broader objectives to enhance its satellite capabilities dedicated to ocean monitoring. Satellite-based observations are essential for addressing pressing environmental concerns, such as climate change and marine pollution.
“The Haiyang-4 (01) will greatly enhance China’s capabilities to monitor its marine environments, providing critical data for forecasting and improving maritime safety.”- CNSA Representative
Significance of Ocean Monitoring Satellites
Ocean monitoring technology is pivotal for gathering data that is beneficial for:
- Predicting weather patterns and natural disasters
- Tracking pollution levels
- Facilitating marine navigation
Upcoming Launches and Missions
China has notable upcoming space missions that will continue to build on its space exploration accomplishments. Key highlights include:
- Tianzhou-8: A cargo resupply mission to the Tiangong space station, scheduled for November 15, 2024.
- Long March 12: The inaugural launch of this rocket from a new spaceport in Hainan.
Notable Past Launches in 2024
| Date | Mission | Status |
|---|---|---|
| July 2024 | iSpace Hyperbola-1 | Failure |
| October 2024 | Chang’e-6 Lunar Sample Return | Success |
| TBA | Shenzhou-19 Crewed Mission | Upcoming |
Conclusion
The successful launch of the Haiyang-4 (01) oceanography satellite underscores China's commitment to advancing its capabilities in space and oceanographic research. Through continued efforts and investments in space technology, China is poised to play a significant role in future global environmental monitoring and research.
For More Information
For more insights on China’s space missions and advancements in satellite technology, refer to the following sources:
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