China successfully launched two SuperView Neo-1 satellites as part of its commercial remote sensing constellation on February 27, 2024. The Long March 2C rocket lifted off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. This addition enhances China’s capabilities in remote sensing technology and contributes to its expanding satellite system.

In a significant advancement in commercial remote sensing, China successfully launched two more SuperView Neo-1 satellites on February 27, 2024. The Long March 2C rocket lifted off at 2:08 a.m. Eastern Time from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. As planned, insulation tiles detached from the rocket during its ascent into a clear blue sky, marking the mission’s successful execution shortly after takeoff, as confirmed by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).

Originally undisclosed, the satellites SuperView Neo-1 03 and 04 (also known domestically as Siwei Gaojing-1 (03, 04)) are part of a new generation of commercial satellites operated by China Siwei Surveying and Mapping Technology Co., Ltd., a branch under CASC. This unveiling contributes to the expansion of the China Siwei New Generation Commercial Remote Sensing Satellite System, which now comprises nine operational satellites, with plans to expand to 28.

As stated by CASC, the SuperView Neo-1 satellites have the highest spatial resolution among commercial remote sensing satellites in China. Featuring ultra-high resolution, agility, and high-performance data transmission, these satellites meet international advanced performance standards, enhancing capabilities in high-resolution agile imaging and providing crucial data for precision mapping services and global commercial market applications.

The existing SuperView constellation includes four Neo-1 optical satellites, four Neo-2 SAR satellites, and one Neo-3 ultra-wide satellite, with Synthetic Aperture Radar enabling all-weather imagery and optical satellites providing detailed high-resolution images. The Shanghai Academy of Space Technology (SAST) developed the satellites, while the launch vehicle was provided by CASC’s China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT).

This launch marked China’s ninth orbital attempt of the year, following recent missions, including the ChinaSat-10R communication satellite launch and the inaugural flight of the Long March 8A rocket, which deployed additional Guowang megaconstellation satellites. China aims to achieve around 100 launches in 2024, with significant commercial endeavors anticipated from Beijing-based companies aiming for approximately 40 launches.

Future missions involve crewed Shenzhou-20 and -21 missions to the Tiangong space station, both expected to last about six months. Additionally, the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft will be dispatched to Tiangong, alongside potential launches of new smaller cargo vessels on commercial rockets. China also looks to introduce new Long March and potentially reusable commercial rockets, including Zhuque-3, Nebula-1, and Tianlong-3, during 2025.

In summary, China’s recent launch of the SuperView Neo-1 satellites advances its commercial remote sensing capabilities and reflects ongoing developments in its space program. With aspirations for extensive launch activities and new technological introductions by 2025, China is positioning itself as a formidable player in the global aerospace sector. Future missions will further enhance its satellite constellation and international cooperation in space exploration.

Original Source: spacenews.com

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